Recognizing the need for specialists who focused on age appropriate educational and diversional needs of pediatric and adolescent patients, Lutheran General began a program in 1969 to improve the quality of life for hospitalized pediatric patients and family members. Less than a decade later the primary focus became therapeutic play and child life was establish. Our program goals has been to uphold the mission of the National Child Life Council:

We, as Child Life professionals, strive to reduce the impact of stressful or traumatic life events and situations which affect the development, health, and well-being of infants, children, youth and families. We embrace the values of play as a healing modality as we work to enhance the normal growth and development of infants, children and youth through assessment, intervention, prevention, advocacy and education. National Child Life Council

Over the years, the Child Life Program has grown to its current staff size of six certified Child Life specialists. The range of services has expanded to include both traditional and innovative interverventions. Patient areas covered daily include pediatrics, adolescents, PICU, PICC, floor teens, ER, NICU, Onco/Hem clinic, and children of adult patient, as well as outpatient referrals.

As part of an interdisciplinary team focused on total patient care, Child Life works closely with social workers, chaplains, therapists, nursing staff, and other professionals from various departments within the hospital.

Many Child Life and Teen Life programs are supported by generous contributions from community members, organizations and area businesses.