Connecticut Children's Blog

With Annie Goldsnider, Child Life Gaming & Technology Specialist The world of video gaming offers so much! Did you know Connecticut Children’s Child Life team works with families during hospital stays to encourage therapeutic video game play?  That’s because, with the support of Child’s Play Charity, we have a Gaming & Technology Specialist, Annie Goldsnider, […]

Every month, hundreds of new apps and digital games are released for kids — some beneficial, some harmless and some your child is definitely better off without. How do you choose? Connecticut Children’s Child Life Specialist Christine Tatem shares tips.  Want more articles like this from pediatric experts you trust? Sign up for our newsletter. […]

While vaccines keep us healthy, they’re linked to a genuine fear for one out of five people: “needlephobia.” And that can present some unique challenges when it’s time for immunizations like the COVID-19 vaccine and annual flu shot. To help your child overcome any fear of needles — or better yet, prevent them from feeling […]

By: Sarah Malvezzi, Child Life specialist At Connecticut Children’s, we have a lot of practice caring for kids in a way that’s comfortable, empowering and even fun for them. If they have a surgery or procedure scheduled, you can count on us to keep them safe and sound every step of the way. You’ll probably […]

By: Kathryn Robbins, Child Life specialist Masks are one of the best ways to prevent the spread of coronavirus. But even if your child knows they’re supposed to wear a mask out in public, it can take some practice – and positive reinforcement – to get them in the habit. Child Life specialist Kathryn Robbins, MS, […]

By: Kathryn Robbins, Child Life specialist As part of Connecticut Children’s Safe and Sound program, every team member, visitor and patient over age 2 wears a face mask. To prevent the spread of coronavirus, masks should be a habit for your family too, especially as you venture out to public places for summer fun. But […]

By: Sarah Malvezzi, Child Life specialist At Connecticut Children’s, we know how to make kids feel comfortable and special, including explaining medical procedures in a way that doesn’t feel intimidating. If your child has a surgery or procedure scheduled, you’ll probably want to talk to them about it at home too. To get started, check […]

By Kelly Foy, Child Life Specialist If your child has a surgery or procedure scheduled, we want to make sure they’re as healthy as possible – and keep everyone safe from coronavirus exposure. So as one of Connecticut Children’s Safe and Sound enhanced safety precautions, we now require a COVID-19 test (with a negative result) […]

At Connecticut Children’s, we love making kids feel special, comfortable and cared for, whether it’s for a quick recovery or an extended inpatient stay. But every child, at every age, gets a boost from the support of family and friends too. During coronavirus visitor restrictions, that can be a little harder than usual. For the […]

Child life specialists are dedicated to supporting the emotional needs of hospitalized children. They help children understand and cope with procedures, illnesses, treatments and extended hospital stays. In honor of Child Life Month, we sat down with Child Life Specialist Katie Robbins to learn more about her experiences and why she chose such a special […]