Education and Support

How child life specialists can prepare and support

Child life specialists may help prepare patients for their procedure or surgery using developmentally appropriate language, meeting the needs of the individual patient and family, with educational materials, photos, drawings, medical equipment, and teaching dolls. Child life specialists are available to provide support during procedures to teach and encourage healthy coping strategies.

How you can prepare and support your child

There are different ways to help your child prepare for their surgery or procedure based on their age. Infants 0 to 2 years old are not developmentally ready for education and preparation. They are best supported by caregiver comfort and distraction. Below are resources about how to best support your child based on their age.