Child Life Department
405-271-4952
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The Child Life Department at The Children's Hospital at OU Medical Center recognizes that hospitalization and illness are stressful events in the lives of children and their families. Therefore Child Life specialists work as part of the medical team to promote optimal child development and minimize the stress of hospitalization for families. In an effort to promote a positive learning experience for children, Child Life specialists facilitate coping and adjustment in circumstances that might otherwise be overwhelming.
Each Child Life specialist holds bachelor and/or master degree(s) in child development, psychology, or related areas, and is professionally certified through the National Child Life Council.
As the only hospital in central Oklahoma to offer Child Life services, The Children's Hospital is dedicated to the healing of the whole child and focused on the physical as well as psychosocial well-being of our patients.
Services provided by Child Life
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Explanation of medical procedures in language children can understand
- Teaching of relaxation, distraction and coping skills before, during and after medical procedures or surgeries
- Coping skill education for children facing chronic illness, injury and/or death
- Emotional support for patients, families, and siblings during stressful experiences
- Therapeutic play to help children express emotion, resolve distress, and facilitate coping during hospitalization
- Opportunities for play designed to encourage development in activity areas and/or at a child's bedside
- Parent education regarding child development and response to hospitalization
- Normalization of the hospital environment through coordination of community events, parties, and seasonal celebrations designed for patients and families.
- NEW!! The Zone is coming... read more below
Child Life specialists are assigned to most patient care areas. Parents and caregivers should ask their nurse or physician for referral to a Child Life specialist.
Hospital Orientation for Children
In order to lessen anxiety in children prior to hospitalization Child Life offers free educational sessions to prepare children and their families. This includes a tour of applicable areas, age appropriate explanations of medical events, and therapeutic/medical play for hands-on learning. To schedule a session with a Child Life specialist please call the Child Life Department at 405-271-4952. View a Virtual Tour of The Children's Hospital.
Preparation for Surgery
Child Life specialists are also available to prepare children and families for what to expect the day of surgery. Explanation of surgical information in language children can understand prior to surgery has shown to reduce fear and anxiety about surgery and to help children recover more quickly than those who are not given age appropriate information. To schedule a pre-surgical tour please call 405-271-4952 ext. 6.
Also, view our surgery preparation video here: Surgery Preparation Video. The Child Life Department recommends that you, the caregiver, first watch this video alone; and then watch the video again with your child and answer questions and address any fears or worries that your child may express.
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Infants
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Toddlers
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Preschool Children
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School Age Children
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Adolescents
Student Programs
Our department offers two student programs. The Child Life Practicum program takes place in the summer and fall semesters (May-Aug) & (Sept-Dec). The Child Life Internship program takes place during the spring semester (Jan-May) -- Learn More About the Internship Program.
Please check the applications for deadline dates: Download Practicum Application or Download Internship Application. If you have any questions regarding student programs please contact Erin Heaney, Child Life Specialist coordinating student programs, at (405) 271-4952, ext. 8, or read Frequenty Asked Questions about Child Life student programs.
How You Can Help
Our patients and families benefit greatly when community groups and individuals give time, energy and creativity to support The Children's Hospital. If you are interested in dedicating time to volunteer or would like to find ways to support the Child Life department through events, activities or patient projects please visit our Children's Hospital Volunteer page or Support Children's page.
The Zone
The Child Life Department is excited for the opening of The Zone in the winter of 2009. Modeled after the past Aikman's Endzone, it is designed as a special haven for patients and siblings, where they can play, explore, learn, socialize and forget the worries of hospitalization. Learn more about The Zone project. The Children's Hospital Volunteers organization is accepting financial contributions to support The Zone project.
Contact Information
Child Life Department
The Children's Hospital at OU Medical Center
1200 Everett Drive
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
Phone: 405-271-4952
Fax: 405-271-4970
Helping Your Child Cope with Health Care Experiences
We provide programs for children and adolescents of all ages, with special services for:
