Incentive Spirometry
We know that one of the biggest ways to combat respiratory illnesses is to encourage ambulation and incentive spirometry. We also know that kids are more compliant when there is a goal and it is actually FUN to do.
We know that one of the biggest ways to combat respiratory illnesses is to encourage ambulation and incentive spirometry. We also know that kids are more compliant when there is a goal and it is actually FUN to do.
You’re helping your patient get ready for an uncomfortable or painful experience. The procedure is not a choice… but choosing something to squeeze is, right? Yeah. We can help with that.
Although I love the benefits of providing kiddos and siblings with the autonomy and mastery that comes with making your own slime, there are benefits to having pre-made slime ready to go.
As Child Life Specialists, we know the magical power of stickers. We can use them for entertainment, distraction, medical play and so much more. In my opinion, stickers work better than a tablet for these age groups. Unlike a tablet, sticker sheets require fine motor skills and allow for expression.
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!
Stress balls. We know ‘em. We love ‘em. We use ‘em. They’re a great introductory item to use to build rapport. (Quick game of catch anyone?) They’re effective and visual when teaching coping skills. They’re an item that you can use when you don’t know the situation you’re walking into. A simple stress ball can be so much more! All it takes is a sharpie, and a stress ball can be whatever I want it to be.