What are Child Life Specialists and what do they do?

Child Life Specialists are healthcare professionals who work with children and their families to help them cope with the stress and challenges of illness, injury, or hospitalization. They use a variety of techniques to help children understand and manage their emotions, develop coping skills, and build resilience.

What Child Life Specialists Do:

- Explain medical procedures to children in a way that they can understand.

- Provide emotional support to children and families during difficult times.

- Help children cope with pain, stress, and anxiety.

- Teach children relaxation techniques and coping strategies.

- Play games and activities with children to help them express their feelings and build relationships.

- Advocate for the needs of children in the healthcare setting.

- Provide support during bereavement and grief.

Child Life Specialists work in a variety of settings including:

- Hospitals

- Clinics

- Rehabilitation centers

- Oncology centers

- Schools

- Camps

Child Life Specialists are essential members of the healthcare team, and they play a vital role in helping children and families cope with the challenges of illness, injury, or hospitalization.