Child Life and Pediatric Integrative Therapies Program

Services provided by the Child Life and Pediatric Integrative Therapies Program

The Child Life and Pediatric Integrative Therapies Program at Mass General Brigham for Children helps children and adolescents navigate the mental, emotional, and social effects of illness, medical treatment, and hospitalization. As part of the care team, our board-certified child life specialists foster positive coping skills and empower children throughout their healthcare experience.

Part of Mass General Brigham for Children

Preparation and Education

Our child life specialists provide preparation and education for potentially painful procedures, new or unfamiliar diagnoses, and the nature of the hospital environment. Our team works with patients and families to create a coping plan for procedures using techniques like play, guided imagery, and deep breathing. Child life specialists collaborate with the medical team to provide developmentally appropriate diagnosis education to children to promote understanding.

Developmental Support

With expertise in child development, child life specialists use play to support typical development. Child life specialists can help support the development of intellectual, motor, emotional and social skills. Engaging in these activities can support children in reaching developmental milestones.

Normalization and Play

The hospital can be a scary place for children, with many new sights and sounds. Our child life team works to create a child-friendly environment through welcoming spaces, such as activity rooms, and opportunities to engage in medical and therapeutic play, creative expression, and peer socialization.

Enhancing Coping and Emotional Regulation

Child life specialists work with children and families to increase coping and normalization of the environment. These skills include techniques such as mindfulness, guided imagery, relaxation, and distraction techniques. This is particularly valuable during medical procedures and lengthy admissions.

Family Involvement and Bonding

Through art, music, and play, our child life team can help promote emotional expression and support children in processing their medical experience. With a passion for advocacy and compassion, child life specialists support families through big challenges. Child life specialists offer legacy-building opportunities during moments of change and loss, as well.