Hospitals can be scary places for children - that is why we have one department whose sole purpose is to help children overcome their fears and provide comfort and security. It's called the Child Life department.

Our entire focus is children. We know that healing requires much more than medicine. It requires treating the whole child in order to encourage recovery. Developmental activities need to continue even when the child is hospitalized. Child life specialists and hospital volunteers work to help children understand hospital routines and feel more at home in the hospital. These attendants are usually by a child's side to help the child through procedures, which may be frightening.

The staff uses play, art and music therapy to help children deal with their questions and emotions. Watching bingo and trivia games on Le Bonheur's own Channel 8 is just one way a child can pass the time while healing. Special events are held frequently in the lobby, and games, toys and books can be found in the playrooms. A newly renovated teen room is also available for patients and their siblings over 13 years old.