Katie Taylor, CCLS Child Life On Call for SmileMakers Inc

We did it… we made it through another year! New beginnings allow us to reflect on what the past brought, but also allow us to focus on what is to come. This may be difficult for hospitalized children and their families; however, it can be very therapeutic to discuss future goals.

But what do goals mean to children? What do goals mean to a sick or hospitalized child?  What do goals mean to parents or siblings of a child who is sick or hospitalized? These are questions a Child Life Specialist can use to facilitate a discussion and eventually help the child and their family achieve those goals.

It's important to explain that goals can be both long term and short term. They can be daily goals, weekly goals, or even just a one-time goal. They can and will look different for everyone but remind the child and family that they should be challenging but doable. Some examples could be "to take my medicine before school" or "take deep breaths when I feel overwhelmed".

A fun way to help children create and determine their goals is to incorporate it into a therapeutic art activity. I love how one activity can be interpreted differently from patient to patient. No two families and experiences are alike, so no therapeutic activity is the same either.

Child Life Specialists use caddy storage bins to gather materials that are appropriate for the developmental level of the patient they are seeing.

One-time use crayons, which are what I call, "pandemic friendly," are the perfect option to use with children to promote choice. Every choice, no matter how seemingly small, makes an impact for a child to feel "in control."

Next, promote fine-motor skills by encouraging the child to write (if able) or verbalize small, attainable goals. If you have trouble getting the patient started, give an example for a goal you are setting for yourself.

Following the child's lead to see what colors they use and in which spaces they write can, encourage creativity and autonomy. Consider asking if you can follow their example to promote self-esteem. For this activity, you'll want to make sure you have glue, scissors and paper, too.

What are some things you would write on your goal setting art activity?