Some kids feel nervous when they don’t know what will happen at the hospital.

Child life specialists can meet with patients and families to explain what to expect using kid-friendly language. They help explain the hospital, equipment and staff so kids feel more prepared.

Child life specialists also help patients make a coping plan so they feel more in control.

Coping plans may include:

• Playing on an iPad or looking at Where’s Waldo
• Relaxation exercises
• Distraction tools
• Coaching during the procedure

A child life specialist can stay with your child during the procedure to help them follow their plan.

Medical information can be hard for kid to understand. Child life specialists use simple, age-appropriate language and teaching tools to help explain:

• How the body works
• What the diagnosis means
• Why certain treatments or medicines are needed

When kids and teens understand what’s happening, they are usually more willing to take part in their care and follow treatment plans.

Being in the hospital can affect the whole family, not just the patient. Child life specialists help brothers and sisters understand what’s happening to their sibling in the hospital.

They also give siblings ways to be involved and provide chances to play and express their feelings.

All kids and teens play — no matter their age, background or ability. Play helps kids feel more in control and express themselves. That’s why child life specialists use play and toys to support patients.

There are different types of play used in the hospital:

• Medical play helps kids get used to medical tools and treatments. Real and toy medical equipment may be used with dolls to help teach and prepare kids.
• Therapeutic play gives kids a way to express feelings and cope with stress. This can include art, music, writing, puppets or guided play.
• Normalizing play lets kids be kids. It helps them feel more at home, use their imagination and interact with others. It also supports healthy development.

Children’s Wisconsin has playrooms filled with games, books, toys and fun activities. These are safe rooms — no medial procedures are done there. Child life specialists also plan special events for kids in the hospital.

Losing someone you love is a big and life-changing event. If affects everyone in the family. During times of grief, child life specialists are there to help children and teens understand what has happened and cope with their feelings.

They help by:

• Creating special memories of the loved one
• Giving kid ways to express their feelings
• Sharing helpful resources for continued support
• Grief Support Group Sign-Up

Child life specialists support families during this difficult time with care and compassion.

Fun group activities are planned regularly for kids and families in the hospital. Child life specialists organize events like a family resource fair, State Fair and winter carnival.

• Teen Advisory Council
• Teen Lounge and programming
• Annual Prom — Stay tuned!
• Teen Support Sign-Up

If you are a high school senior or college-level student actively pursuing a career in Child Life, please complete this form:

• Chat with a child life specialist