The Child Life Department at CHOC Children’s strives to normalize the hospital environment for its pediatric patients and families. This normalization can occur through procedural, surgical, diagnosis education and support as well as therapeutic interventions meant to maintain or improve development. Child Life Specialists are trained professionals with bachelor’s or master’s degrees in the area of child life, child development, human development, or recreation therapy. Many Child Life Specialists also receive national professional certification.

Helping Our Patients
You can help our patients by donating NEW toys, games, and other supplies. You can also donate cash and gift cards for the CHOC Child Life Staff to purchase items most needed for our current patients.
 Click here to view CHOCO’s Wish List

Services Offered:

• Pre-Procedural Preparation and Support
• Therapeutic Medical Play
• “Hello Hospital” Pre-Admission Program
• Surgery preparation and OR Escorts
• New Diagnosis Education and Support
• Education and Support for Siblings
• Therapeutic Programs:
  • Playroom/Bedside Activities
  • Pet Therapy
  • Music Therapy
  • Art Therapy
• Developmental Stimulation
• Grief/Bereavement Education and Support
• Special Entertainment
• Geek Squad
• Sibling Support

Hours of Operation
Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Saturday-Sunday 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Emergency Department Coverage -7 days a week 3:30 p.m. - midnight