Child Life
The child life specialists at Golisano Children's Hospital are trained and certified to care for the emotional and developmental needs of children and families. They can help children cope with the fear and anxiety associated with a hospital stay by explaining what is happening to them in terms that they can understand. They also coach parents on "how to talk" to their children during traumatic times which encourages children to express themselves freely.
The goals and objectives of child life specialists are to:
- Reduce stress by helping children cope with the fear and anxiety associated with a separation from home and school. One way we do this is by creating activities that strengthen self-esteem and independence.
- Prepare and support children, teens, and families for their medical experience in terms they can understand. Pre-operative teaching is provided when a child is undergoing surgery. Pre-admission tours are available by request.
- Serve as a resource for patients, families, and other hospital staff regarding child development and hospital issues and facilitate tutoring needs for patients. Tutoring provides structure to the day, reinforces that some things remain constant even when you are in the hospital, and keeps patients from falling behind.
- Facilitate normal growth and development by providing play opportunities and social interactions in child and teen friendly environments.
- Support family relationships by encouraging both parents and siblings to visit and be a part of the healthcare experience.
"Here at Golisano Children's Hospital we are committed to supporting the needs of the children and families. Our goal is to minimize the negative impact of healthcare experiences while maintaining individual growth, development, and family relations. Children teach us so much about living and coping. We are their guides, but they are their own leaders when it comes to facing the challenges they face in life. It is an honor and a privilege to support the needs of children and families." –Wendy Lane, MS, CCLS
