The 21-bed Hendrick Children's Hospital, with a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, is part of Hendrick Medical Center and is designed specifically for cuddle-sized patients. Our specially trained pediatric nurses have open arms to provide warmth and love as they administer highly skilled pediatric care. Patients range from bright-eyed babies with respiratory infections to a nine-year-old clinging to life with chronic lung disease to teenagers with broken bones. Every child is special to the Hendrick Children's Hospital staff.

The Child Life Program at Hendrick Children's Hospital

A trip to the hospital can be traumatic for any child.  That’s why Hendrick Children’s hospital has a child life specialist available to your child.  Child life specialists are trained in child development, psychology and other related areas.  Child life specialists provide psychosocial and emotional support for children and their family to promote a positive experience and nurture your child’s growth and development.  They also play a vital role in educating caregivers, administrators and the general public about the needs of children under stress.

Child Life Program services include :
• Ease a child’s fear and anxiety with therapeutic and recreational play activities
• Encourage understanding and cooperation by providing non-medical preparation and support for children undergoing tests, surgeries, and other medical procedures
• Advocate for family-centered care
• Engage and energize children and families by coordinating special events, entertainment, and activities
• Consider the needs of siblings or other children who may also affected by a child’s illness or trauma
• Direct pre-admission hospital tours and resources, and consultations with outpatient families
• Support families confronting grief and bereavement issues
• Provide education and resources for parents and members of the interdisciplinary team

These are the many different ways the child life specialist can help a child who has entered the hospital.  If it is scary for an adult, imagine how scary it can be for a child.  If you or you family would like anymore information on the Child Life Program at Hendrick Children’s Hospital, please contact 325-670-3361.