5 Ways to Help Children Cope During a Hospital Stay

For pediatric patients, hospitals can be scary and overwhelming places.

Child life specialists, however, can help ease the transition from home to a hospital stay. These staff members are trained to use creativity and communication to prepare children for tests, procedures, or surgeries and make their hospital experience a little less daunting.

Health Matters asked some of NewYork-Presbyterian’s child life specialists to provide their best tips for helping young patients and their families cope during a hospital stay.