When a child has to be admitted to the hospital, it can be a stressful experience for both the patient and their caregivers. Molly Gerke, Child Life Specialist, gives us some ideas for keeping kids occupied in the hospital, using activities that might help them open up about their feelings and relieve some fears.
Create an “All About Me” poster
This fun project can be displayed in the child’s hospital room to help the hospital staff get to know and build rapport with the child. Encourage kids to think outside the box for their poster and include all different types of things that they love. For example, they could highlight their favorite foods or snacks, draw pictures of their pets and family members, or talk about their favorite books, games, and activities.
Download the About Me poster
Try some bandage art
A hospital stay can be a scary experience for kids. There’s a lot of bustling around, and new sights, sounds and smells all around them during their stay. Creating pictures with bandages is an opportunity to use everyday medical objects in an enjoyable way. For added fun, pick up some multi-colored bandages and use them in combination with crayons or markers to make some beautiful pictures.
Decorate the IV pole
IV poles can be intimidating, but not if they’re decorated! Could that big, tall, metal pole be turned into a giant beanstalk? Could you add streamers and sparkles? Try making an IV pole jellyfish or see what other fun ideas you can come up with for IV pole flair!
