Child Life Program

The Child Life Program at Nemours Children's Health, Jacksonville, helps children and families in our hematology and oncology programs heal through play, preparation, education and self-expression.

A Child Life specialist is a graduate of a bachelor’s or master’s program in education, human growth and development, psychology, or counseling and certified through rigorous training.

We’re experienced in helping children and adolescents deal with a serious illness, and cope with feelings like guilt, anger and confusion.

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Anticipating Your Every Need

We’re here to meet the needs of our patients — infants to adolescents — and families during stressful and traumatic situations by providing:

  • Psychosocial support: explain procedures and treatments and talk about concerns

  • Procedural support: offer comfort and distraction during blood draws and other procedures

  • Medical/therapeutic play: use the power of play as an integral part of the healing process

  • Education and advocacy: foster understanding and communication with your medical team

When your child is anxious, when you’re overwhelmed, and your other children don’t understand what’s happening to your family, contact us. We’re here for you.