These things happen without effort in a part of our brain called the limbic system. They happen with little, if any, effort. As natural and unprovoked as these actions are to us, play is as effortless to children. Here are a few scenarios to consider.
With more and more Child Life Specialists expanding into the dental field to support children during dental experiences, I thought it would be a great time to share my favorite tools for a dental prep.
When we are running from a procedure to the playroom and everywhere in between, it’s a good idea to stock your storage closet with items and activities that will promote understanding.
Explaining to children how germs, bacteria and viruses work can be one of the trickier conversations to have. Whenever we have to explain an “invisible illness” it can be a hard concept to grasp. SmileMakers has created a Germ Squad Coloring Book (the value pack even has crayons included!) to help us navigate this conceptually hard lesson. And they’ve actually made it fun!
As Child Life Specialists we know that concrete, visual tools are what work best to educate kids and their families. I have had countless experiences when a parent has told me, “thank you for showing and explaining this in simple terms… it’s so much easier to understand without medical jargon.” Yup, I agree!
