Child Life
In Child Life we help children understand and cope with hospitalization. Focusing on developmental needs of children, Child Life Specialists provide education, play and emotional support for patients and their families. Child Life Assistants oversee the Child Life Playroom and George's Clubhouse.
Child Life Specialists are available Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 4:30 pm. As part of the medical team, Child Life Specialists collaborate with staff within the Hospital to help meet the needs of the hospitalized child. Some of the services a Child Life Specialist provides are:
- Illness and hospital education
- Surgery and procedure preparation
- Therapeutic and recreation play activities
- Coordinate special events, entertainment and activities
- Grief and bereavement support
Services Offered
Child Life Playroom
The Playroom (located on the Garden Level) helps children do what they do best: play! In the Playroom – away from medical tests and procedures – children can enjoy arts, crafts, music, games, reading, movies and video games. The Playroom also hosts events like Bingo, holiday events, music programs, as well as special guests and celebrity characters. Bedside activities and movies are available to children unable to come to the Playroom.
Playroom Hours (7 days a week)
George's Clubhouse
Children are encouraged to visit the George’s Clubhouse (located on the Garden Level) while being treated at Valley Children’s Hospital. The Clubhouse has activities, arts and crafts and video games to provide kids opportunities to play while in the hospital.
Classroom Hours (Monday-Friday)
Golden Valley Unified School District
A child’s education does not have to stop because a child is hospitalized. School is a routine that kids are used to. It’s one way to provide something normal during a hospital stay. For children who are scheduled to be here for more than 10 days, a Golden Valley Unified School District teacher can be assigned to provide grade appropriate instruction.
Donate Items from our Wish List
The Child Life Department at Valley Children's appreciates donations of items for our patients to use during class time and play time. We are happy to accept new unwrapped toys, books, games, DVDs, video games, teen toiletries, art supplies, gift bags, blankets, hats, and other items for children of all ages. Items must be in the original box with the tag. A complete list of needed new items is available here.
To keep our patients safe, used or even gently used items cannot be accepted. Pediatric patients need special considerations when they are given items due to their immune systems. Patients can be more sensitive or reactive when exposed to dust, animal dander, cleaning products, etc. Their health is our highest concern and we appreciate your understanding and support to provide only new items.
If you are interested in donating needed new items to Child Life, please click here and fill out the donation interest form at the bottom of the page. Our team will review and will respond to you with further information.
If you are considering a fundraising event or soliciting items for the hospital toward a donation, contact the Foundation department at (559) 353-7100 for more information.
Contact Child Life
(559) 353-5444
child_life@valleychildrens.org
Learn about the Child Life Internship Program at Valley Children's Hospital >>