Katie Taylor, CCLS Child Life On Call for SmileMakers Inc

Do you know what makes getting an x-ray more fun? GLOW-IN-THE-DARK TOYS!

When kids walk into a radiology room, it can feel dark, uninviting and full of strange looking equipment. Once a child said to me, “You call THAT a camera?!” I had to agree… it looked more like a snake attached to a box.

Child Life Specialists are always doing their best to make strange spaces feel inviting and comfortable. We take abnormal situations and insert some fun, education, and engagement. Radiology is the perfect place to bring in some unique fun.

For example, instead of using a regular ball to play and build rapport with a child, we can use glow-in-the-dark bouncing balls, like these.

If you are working with a child that is seeking tactile sensory activities, you could encourage them to use the Glow-In-the-Dark Fun Putty!

For distraction or alternative focus during an uncomfortable or painful experience, try Glow-in- the-Dark Clackers.

I also love Glow-in-the-Dark Bracelets for each person to wear in the room. Instead of just giving it to the patient, try encouraging the parent and radiology tech to wear them, too! Let everyone join in on the party!

So, whether you are helping prepare a child for a procedure and want to help normalize their experience, teach coping skills, or just improve their overall experience, I recommend using fun items like these!

What do you like to use for FUN in radiology?