Child life specialists can help siblings, parents, caregivers and other loved ones through emotional and developmental support, education and resources. Their goal is to reduce stress and support the entire family.

To learn more or contact a child life specialist, please email us.

A Helping Hand for Families With Babies in the NICU

A CCLS can support babies and their families in the NICU. They offer many things, such as:

• Developmental support
• Bonding opportunities
• Ways to make memories
• Play-based activities to promote growth and development
• Communication and emotional connection with siblings throughout a baby's stay in the NICU

Specially Trained Support for Children of Adult Patients

A CCLS can also help children of adult patients at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. This includes other children such as nieces, nephews, cousins and siblings.

For children of adult patients, a child life specialist:

• Provides honest information with age-appropriate explanations
• Helps hospitalized loved ones connect with their children
• Supports children and loved ones in difficult situations and conversations in a developmentally appropriate way
• Helps educate and prepare a child before they visit their loved one in the hospital
• Creates, finds or provides resources to help a child cope