Play is an important part of your child’s life. It allows them to use their imagination and gives them opportunities to explore, learn, and express themselves. During hospitalization, play allows children to share their feelings, fears, and concerns about the hospital. In turn, Child Life staff can help provide ways for children to cope with the things they find stressful in a safe way. Parents are often surprised to see that their child can learn and benefit through play.
Child Life personnel have expertise in child development and can help children and their families overcome some of life’s most challenging events. They work with infants, toddlers, preschool and school-age children, teens, young adults and their families to help cope with the stress associated with acute and chronic illness, injury, disability, loss and bereavement.
Child Life Specialists provide evidence-based developmentally and psychologically appropriate interventions including therapeutic play, medical play, and education that support and reduce fear, anxiety and pain for children, teens and families. They work in partnership with families and the interdisciplinary healthcare team to meet the psychosocial, emotional and developmental needs of children, adolescents and young adults.
What we offer:
- Procedural preparation and support
- Therapeutic play
- Medical education
- Art
- Relaxation and guided imagery for pain management
- Recreation
- Bereavement
- Family support
- Wish referrals for children age 2 ½ - 17 with severe and life-threatening conditions
Educational Services
A New York City Department of Education teacher is available to provide instruction for hospitalized patients in grades K – 12.
Special Programs
Holiday and birthday celebrations, Halloween parade and Summer ice cream parties help to normalize the hospital experience and give the children and their families something to look forward to. We also have bimonthly musical performances from Music That Heals.
Donations
The Child Life Program is always accepting donations. If you would like to make a monetary donation click the link below.
We also welcome donations of brand-new toys, clothing, art supplies etc. Please visit our Amazon wish list.
Contact Lisa Smith at lisa.smith@downstate.edu or 718-270-2176 with any inquiries.
