Illness, hospitalization and painful medical treatments can be very frightening and confusing for a child. The child life department at Advocate Hope Children's Hospital focuses on the emotional and developmental needs of children and their families. Using play and other forms of communication, we strive to reduce the stress associated with healthcare experiences and enable children and families to cope in a positive manner.

Our certified child life specialists are trained to:

• Provide support, distraction and preparation for all types of procedures and tests.
• Help normalize a child's day by encouraging play, offering social activities, and supporting continued growth and development.
• Provide developmentally appropriate information to children, parents, and siblings.
• Offer emotional support to parents and siblings.

To learn more about the field of Child Life and certified child life specialists, visit the National Child Life Council at http://www.childlife.org/.