The Child Life Program

Photos above, left to right: Courtesy of Encourage Kids Foundation; Courtesy of Marj Kleinman; Courtesy of Encourage Kids Foundation; The TBHC pediatric inpatient unit’s playroom.

The Child Life Program
The Child Life Program at TBHC addresses the unique emotional and developmental needs of our pediatric patients (from birth to 21 years of age) and their families. Certified Child Life Specialists (CCLS) use developmentally appropriate preparation, education and various therapeutic techniques, such as guided imagery and distraction, when working with children and families.

Child Life assists during medical procedures and exams by preparing children and providing coping strategies. The relaxed and comfortable play environment and trusting relationships built by Child Life Specialists allow children to freely express their feelings and concerns regarding hospitalization and illness. Child Life Specialists normalize the hospital experience by providing children with a sense of control over a seemingly uncontrollable situation while providing the child and family with education and emotional support.

TBHC has two full-time Certified Child Life Specialists who cover the following areas:

• Pediatric inpatient unit, pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), neonatal intensive care (NICU) and pediatric hematology/oncology clinic
• Outpatient pediatric sites and services, such as radiology, pediatric dental and pediatric neurology
• Pediatric emergency department, where a dedicated CCLS provides much-needed support in a very stressful time

Specific services include:

• Pediatric inpatient unit and pediatric intensive care unit: The Child Life Program supervises our playroom on the inpatient unit. The playroom provides developmentally appropriate play and activities for children of all ages, from Play-Doh to painting. There is even a teen nook in the playroom, allowing our older patients to engage in video games, watch movies or just hang out with one another. If your child cannot visit the playroom, toys and activities can be brought to the bedside
• Radiology prep: The Child Life Program provides preparation for various scans in radiology. Using child-friendly and developmentally appropriate language, the Child Life staff can educate and prepare your child for their scan or imaging. If you are interested in speaking with a Child Life Specialist about your child’s next imaging appointment, contact Taylor Brower at tbrower@tbh.org or 718-250-8514
• Pre-Operational Preparation Program: Our Child Life Specialists offer suggestions on how to prepare and support your child during your visit for surgery at TBHC. If you would like to speak with a Child Life Specialist before your child’s surgery, contact Taylor Brower at tbrower@tbh.org or 718-250-8514

Donations and Further Information

The Child Life Program is always accepting donations, and the Child Life team maintains an Amazon Wish List of our most in-demand items for those who like to shop for donation items online. The Wish List is updated every holiday season for our annual pediatric holiday toy drive. We also accept donations of brand-new art supplies, toys and clothing year-round.

If you would like to make a monetary donation, please visit the TBHC Online Donation page.

If you have any questions regarding general Child Life information, donating, volunteering, or our six-week Child Life Practicum learning experience for Child Life undergraduate and graduate students, contact Taylor Brower at tbrower@tbh.org or 718-250-8514.