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National Community Child Life
Directory
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Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Bereavement Programs– Funeral Homes, Hospice, Grief Counseling,
Palliative Care, End of Life, Bereavement in Schools………………………………………………5
Chapter 2: Therapeutic Medical Camps/Grief Camps & Programs
Camps for Medically Fragile children, Grief, Illness, and Siblings…………………..16
Chapter 3: Community Mental Health……………………………………………………………………26
Chapter 4: Regional Centers- Early Childhood Intervention…………………………………35
Chapter 5: Child Development Centers- Head Start Programs and Medically Fragile
Children Centers………………………………………………………………………………………………………………42
Chapter 6: Pediatric Home Care Programs………………………………………………………………58
Chapter 7: Pediatric Dental Settings…………………………………………………………………68
Chapter 8: Private Practice, Consulting, Play Therapy…………………………………..75
Chapter 9: Legal Systems- Court Appointed Special Advocates & Child Advocacy
Centers……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………84
Chapter 10: School Setting – Educational Consult for Children with Chronic or Life
Threatening Diseases………………………………………………………………………………………….90
Chapter 11: Child Life in a Nonprofit Community Service/Support Agency and
Nonprofits Providing Child Life Services ……………………………………………………….93
Chapter 12: Child Abuse Centers – Family Programs and Shelters ………………..97
Chapter 13: Wellness Centers………………………………………………………………………………….106
Chapter 14: Ronald McDonald Houses……………………………………………………………………108
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Introduction
Child Life Programs have become standard in most large hospital settings,
building on individual and family strengths, promoting optimal development, and
minimizing the adverse effects of stressful events in their lives. Today Child Life
Specialists are beginning to make the same essential contributions within the
community.
This National Community Child Life Directory provides Child Life Specialists
with alternative settings outside the hospital environment. The directory includes
the programs and settings where child life practice may be incorporated and
delivered in a variety of settings nationwide. This directory provides CLS with a
hands-on resource for exploring the endless opportunities open to Child Life
Specialists. The abbreviation “CLS” is used throughout the directory. This
abbreviation is short for Child Life Specialist.
Each chapter in this Community Child Life Resource Guide lists the name of
the program or setting along with a description of the setting. The contact
information including address, phone number and website of each program is listed
as well as a chapter introduction on how CLS can use their skills and expertise in
each setting. Each chapter is split into the following regions- East Coast, Midwest,
West and West Coast.
Child Life Specialists can be found in many new areas in which children and
families find themselves coping with challenging and overwhelming situations. This
resource guide provides CLS with unique practice areas where child life services
can be used to benefit the needs of families outside of hospital settings.
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Instructions
This National Community Child Life Directory was created to help Certified
Child Life Specialists with job opportunities in alternative settings nationwide. This
directory can be helpful for CLS looking for opportunities outside the hospital
setting. This child life directory can be used by all cultures, genders and
generations looking for opportunities in the child life field. The directory lists
many settings where Child Life Specialists knowledge, skills and expertise with
children and families can be beneficial.
This directory provides a variety of settings where child life can be
delivered in many settings. The directory was created as an introduction to unique
settings in which CLS can use their expertise to help children and families. There
are many opportunities for child life services in alternative settings, this directory
is only an introduction to the many areas in which Child Life Specialists can help
children and their families coping with challenging situations.
I hope you find this directory helpful in beginning your search as a Child Life
Specialist looking for new areas and settings in which child life services can be
beneficial. Welcome to a new world of opportunity for Child Life Specialists!
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Chapter 1:
Bereavement Programs – Funeral Homes, Hospice, Grief Counseling, Palliative Care,
End of Life and Bereavement in Schools Program
www.hospiceofhuntington.org
A Child Life Specialist can find working in bereavement programs a good fit. In the
hospital setting, the CLS works with families and children with issues of loss such as
identity, independence, function, limb and life. The experiences CLS have from the
hospital setting, especially dealing with grief and loss can benefit them when working in an
alternative bereavement setting. Child Life Specialist’s skills such as the ability to work
with a diverse population, communication skills, knowledge about grief and loss and
developmental knowledge are well suited to working with children and families experiencing
loss through death. These same skills are adaptable to the bereavement setting, where
families are under stress and are in need of the same support and care.
In this chapter bereavement settings are listed in many states within the U.S. where
children and their families are coping with the loss of a loved one.
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West States- Montana & Colorado
Peace Hospice of Montana
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This children's bereavement program is specially created to meet the needs of
children ages 5 - 18 who have experienced the death of a loved one. The support
group provides a safe environment for grieving children to ask questions and
experience emotions with peers and caring adults. It is the mission of Peace
Hospice to extend this environment to all aspects of a child's life through his / her
program sponsor, family, school, and community.
Children Bereavement Services
1101 26th Street South
Great Falls, MT 59405
(406) 455-3040
www.benefis.org
Judi’s House Hope and Healing for Grieving Children and Their Families
Helping Grieving Children and Teens in School Program
 Judi’s House staff works cooperatively with all school districts in the Denver metro
area.
 In school, a peer support group facilitated by trained Judi’s House grief counselors
can provide a safe forum for grieving children to express their thoughts and
emotions concerning the death of someone special.
 Such school-based activities help to decrease the child’s sense of isolation in their
grief experience.
 To get started, the school must identify at least 6 children who could benefit from
a peer support group. Group max is 12 participants.
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During our visit, we combine grief education with a mix of fun hands-on activity
that bring the students closer together and provide them with tools for life.
1741 Gaylord St
Denver, CO 80206
Phone: 720-941-0331
www.judishouse.org
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Midwest- Michigan & Minnesota
Arbor Hospice
 Arbor Hospice is an independent, non-profit, community-based organization and has
been providing the highest quality hospice and grief support services for adults,
children and families since 1984 in Washtenaw County and the surrounding seven
counties.
1. Art from the Heart Support Group: Facilitated by an art therapist, this group is
specifically designed for any child in Kindergarten through 8th grade who is grieving an
important person in his or her life. Art from the Heart meets the first and third
Saturdays of the month at The Residence of Arbor Hospice from 1 – 3 pm.
2. Memory Book Group: This program is open to adults and children who are interested in
organizing photos of loved ones in a fun and creative way to create a memory book.
Materials are provided through funding by the Kiwanis Club of Ann Arbor; participants just
need to bring photos. The Memory Book Group meets the second Saturday from 1 – 3 pm
at The Residence of Arbor Hospice
Administrative Office
The Residence of Arbor Hospice & The Arbor Hospice Foundation
2366 Oak Valley Drive
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48103
734-662-5999
www.arborhospice.org
Mattson Funeral Home and Cremation Service
Children and Grief Programs
The Star Program (A Special Time to Always Remember)
 Through the STAR program, our staff helps explain what a funeral hearse, eulogy
and more is, to kids. The program is geared toward kids 3-18 but can be helpful for
people of all ages.
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Kids begin with a coloring book, telling the story of Grandpa Amos dying. The
funeral home provides literature featuring traditional and cremation funerals,
depending on which service is taking place for that family member. The half-hour
program takes place during the visitation for family, and can also be good for
parents to observe, to know how to talk to their children about death.
Aside from reading through the coloring book on death, we give each child a
keepsake picture of their loved one that they can write or draw a message on and
remember their loved one forever. The children also receive a Star that they may
write a message on and can put in the casket with the deceased
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343 North Shore Drive
Forest Lake, MN 55025
651-464-3556
info@mattsonfuneralhome.com
www.mattsonfuneralhome.com
Children’s Grief Connection
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Children’s Grief Connection is a nonprofit organization that works in partnership
with Minnesota’s funeral directors to provide grief programs for children and teens
who have experienced the death of someone important to them. It is specially
designed to provide the support and information children need, in a way they can
understand.
72351 Pine River Road
Willow River, MN 55795
877.226.7632
www.childrensgriefconnection.com
East Coast- New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Massachusetts & Delaware
Kids Connect/Parents Connect Bereavement Groups
Meets monthly on Wednesday afternoons.
 This program is designed for families who have lost a parent to cancer. Two groups
meet simultaneously – one for the children who have lost a parent to cancer and the
other for the surviving parent.
The Wellness Community of Central New Jersey
an Affiliate of the Cancer Support Community
3 Crossroads Drive
Bedminster, NJ 07921
908-658-5400
www.cancersupportcnj.org
Roberta’s House- Family Grief Support Center
 Roberta's House is a Grief and Loss Center with the focus of restoring children and
families to a place of wholeness as they experience grieving the loss of a loved one
through the development of healthy coping skills that lead to positive outcomes.
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Programs for Children
Roberta's House serves children between 5-17 years of age with the understanding and
commitment that no child (or adult) should grieve alone.
 Following a death children often have many questions. Roberta's House is a safe
place where they can explore their questions as they are ready. It's a place where
they receive support and encouragement from their peers and caring adults.
 Children work in age appropriate groups for "Kiddles" ages 5-8 years, "Middles"
ages 8-12 years and "Teens" ages 13-17 years.
 Through the use of creative arts expression, crafts, and meaning making through
memory treasures children are able to begin the journey of accomplishing the tasks
of grief work.
Annette March-Grier, Executive Director
Roberta's House Inc.
1900 N. Broadway, Suite 101
Baltimore, Maryland 21213
410-235-6633
robertashouse.org
Our Mission
To enrich quality of life by providing expert care, support, education and consultation for
those affected by life-limiting illness, death and loss.
Children and Grief Services
Our free children's support groups offer a dedicated, safe forum for children in different
age groups to express feelings associated with the death of a loved one. Open to any child
dealing with loss, our groups are free of charge and occur on an ongoing basis, with the
option to attend as many groups as desired.
Some of the additional ways we help:
 Grief assessments
 Emergency debriefing
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Detailed age-appropriate curriculum on grief
Annual Camp Stepping Stones for children and their families
Phone consultations
Remembrance services and activities
Comprehensive lending library
Consultations to help parents and children, both during illness and after a loss
Collaboration with area schools, hospitals, parents’ groups and other organization
Kaplan Family Hospice House
78 Liberty Street
Danvers, MA 01923
978-774-7566
www.hns.org
Family Hospice and Palliative Care
o Pediatric Palliative Care
The Pediatric Palliative Care Program provides comprehensive palliative care
services to meet the unique needs of children with a life-limiting illness and their
families in a variety of settings - the hospital, at home, or in any location desired by
the family or primary caregiver.
o The experienced interdisciplinary Pediatric Palliative Care team collaborates with
each child's primary physician to provide specialized services that focus on pain
relief, symptom management and comfort care. Visits by team members are flexible
and individualized to the needs of the child and family.
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The Pediatric Palliative Care Program Provides:
24 hour on-call availability
Specialized services that focus on pain relief, symptom management and comfort
care
Emotional and spiritual support for the child, family and others meaningful in the
child's life
Bereavement support for patients, siblings, and extended family members
Administrative Offices and The Center for Compassionate Care
50 Moffett St
Pittsburgh, PA 15243
(412) 572-8800 1-800-513-2148
www.familyhospice.com
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Funeral Bereavement Program at Doherty Funeral Home
 Only a few funeral homes offer comprehensive bereavement programs and services.
When a loved one dies and you need help making sense of your grief experience; we
are here for you.
1. Our Bereavement Coordinator is trained and Certified in Thanatology (dying, death,
and bereavement) to better assist you and your family.
2. Let's talk about the Funeral is an individualized program developed right here at
Doherty Funeral Homes to help children and teenagers better understand their loss
and the planned funeral/memorial service.
3. Our annual Holiday Hope program and memorial gives grieving families and
individuals a framework to help them cope through the holiday season.
1900 Delaware Avenue
Wilmington, DE 19806
Phone 302 652-6811
www.dohertyfh.com
West Coast- California & Oregon
The Dougy Center for Grieving Children and Families
 The mission of The Dougy Center is to provide support in a safe place where
children, teens, young adults and their families grieving a death can share their
experiences.
The Dougy Center
2228 NE Glisan Street
Portland, OR 97232
Phone: 503-775-5683
Toll Free: 866-775-5683
Email: help@dougy.org
www.dougy.org
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George Mark Children’s House is a nonprofit organization that provides the gift of time to
children with life-limiting illnesses and their families.
We serve as a medical model for interdisciplinary palliative care for children and their
families. We have doctors and nurses who provide 24/7 medical care for our children, and
our Interdisciplinary Team also includes a licensed social worker, psychologist, child life
specialist, and chaplain who address the emotional, social, psychological, and spiritual
needs of the entire family.
Types of Care
Our forms of care include respite care (round-the-clock), transitional care, pain and
symptom management, and end-of-life care for children with life-limiting illnesses and
their families. Additional services include ongoing support and bereavement programs.
2121 George Mark Lane
San Leandro, CA 94578
(510) 346-4624
www.georgemark.org
South- Alabama, Florida & South Carolina
The Healing Place
 At The Healing Place, our focus is young people ages 3-19 and their families who
have experienced the death of a sibling, parent, grandparent, friend or other loved
one that may need support or guidance in dealing with the grief associated with
that loss.
Tuscumbia Alabama Location:
5604 Ricks Lane
P.O. Box 740356
Tuscumbia, Alabama 35674
Phone: 256.383.7133
www.thehealingplaceinfo.org
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SunCoast Hospice
 The Stepping Stones for Kids Palliative Care Program offers families and
children choices in care. A variety of care programs are available, each
unique and focused on providing care tailored for your seriously ill child’s
needs.
 Stepping Stones offers home, school, hospital or hospice service centers
based support services and strives to help children and families live each day
to the fullest with optimism, courage and hope.
Children’s Hospice & Palliative Care Program
This service provides interdisciplinary care for children with life limiting illnesses and
conditions. Services include:
 Nursing Visits
 Counseling Support
 Pastoral Care
 Volunteer Support
 Pain & Symptom Management
 Training & Education for Caregivers
Children’s Home Health Care
This service provides interdisciplinary care for children with long-term chronic illnesses.
Services include:
 Nursing Visits
 Counseling support
 Pain & Symptom Management
 Training & Education for Caregivers
 Shift care Nursing
 Wound care
Sibling Support
Counseling is available for children coping with the serious illness or death of a sibling.
Counselors, specialized in pediatrics and child development, use treatment interventions
such as art and play to help the sibling understand the seriously ill child’s illness.
5771 Roosevelt Blvd
Clearwater, FL 33760
(727) 523-3458
www.thehospice.org
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School Grief Support Group
In cooperation with local schools and guidance counselors, HospiceCare staff provides
support groups on site to grieving children and teens at the elementary, middle, and high
school levels. These groups help the youth cope with their grief and commemorate their
loved one.
This program lasts five-weeks. This school Grief Series which will be hosted and
facilitated by HospiceCare of the Piedmont staff
HospiceCare of the Piedmont, Boardroom
408 West Alexander Avenue
Greenwood, SC
864.227.9393
www.hospicepiedmont.org
Gilda’s Club of South Florida
Cancer Support for the Whole Family-The Whole Time
Gilda’s Club South Florida is a free cancer support community for women, men,
children, and teens with all types of cancer and their families and friends.
Noogieland™ is both a concept and a place where children and teens find that they are
never alone with a cancer diagnosis. It is for children and teens that have a loved one with
cancer, who have lost a loved one to cancer, or who have cancer themselves.
In Noogieland™ children get a chance to play and laugh with other children who know what
they are going through. They find healthy ways to express their emotions through art and
play. They share their “expertise” about living with cancer with the other children. And
they participate in weekly, monthly, and annual special events and celebrations that provide
inspiration and hope. Noogieland™ has a Teen Group to meet the special needs of
adolescent
119 Rose Drive
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
954-763-6776
www.gildasclubsouthflorida.org
Gilda's Club Chicago* This Club also has the Noogieland Program
537 North Wells Street
Chicago, Illinois 60654
www.gildasclubchicago.org
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Chapter 2: Therapeutic Medical Camps/ Grief Camp Programs
Camps for Medically Fragile children, Grief, illness, and siblings
intheloopkids.com
Child life can play an important role in the camping environment. Child life specialists can
assist in many aspects of camp planning, programing, and implementation of child life
services, and they are a valuable addition to the camping staff. The fundamental
understanding of the psychosocial impact of illness is imperative while addressing issues
and concerns that arise at camp. The child life specialist can be the staff member who
helps provide campers with appropriate support and intervention when any issue arises. A
child life specialist can make valuable contributions to camp setting, particularly those
with special medical needs.
In the chapter camps in a variety of states within the U.S are listed. Each of the camps is
unique in the services they provide for children.
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East Coast- New York, Pennsylvania & Connecticut
Bereavement Camps for Children
Camp Dragonfly
Camp Dragonfly is a free weekend bereavement camp for children ages 6-12. On the
surface, it’s much like any other camp. Kids and their buddies sleep in enclosed cabins on
bunks. They play games, make crafts, swim, go boating and gather around the evening
campfire. But at this camp each child is paired with an adult "big buddy," a specially
trained volunteer who provides companionship, support and supervision throughout the
weekend. Medical staff is on site throughout the weekend.
Through this combination of play and camaraderie, Camp Dragonfly leads children through
loss, grief and recovery.
Two sessions are held each year, one at Camp Swatara (ages 6-12), Bethel and one at Camp
Hebron (ages 6-15), Halifax.
Please call Stephanie Schaefer, Coordinator of Volunteers, at 1-800-889-1098 for the
Camp Hebron site or Cathie Davidavage, Bereavement Counselor, at 1-800-222-5236 for
the Camp Swatara site.
PinnacleHealth Hospitals
PO Box 8700
Harrisburg, PA 17105-8700
www.pinnaclehealth.org
Camp Jonathan, one-week day camp for bereaved children.
The purpose of Camp Jonathan is to help children ages 6 through 12 who have suffered
the death of a significant person in their lives.
Using the creative arts as a therapeutic mode combined with small group support and
administered by professional pediatric grief counselors, Camp Jonathan is a unique
resource for grieving children.
For more information please call:
Mary Peitler, New Milford VNA Community Education Coordinator, (860) 354-2216
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New Milford Visiting Nurse Association, Inc.
68 Park Lane Road (Route 202)
New Milford, CT 06776
Comfort Zone Camp
 Comfort Zone Camp is a nonprofit bereavement camp that transforms the lives of
children who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, or primary caregiver.
 The free camps include confidence building programs and age-based support groups
that break the emotional isolation grief often brings. Comfort Zone Camps are
offered to children 7-17, and are held year-round in California, Massachusetts, New
Jersey, and Virginia.
www.comfortzonecamp.org
Camp Good Days and Special Times
Camp Good Days and Special Times is non-profit organization that is dedicated to
improving the quality of life for children, adults and families whose lives have been
touched by cancer and other life challenges through summer camping experiences and
year-round events and activities.
Camp Good Days & Special
Times
Central New York
356 North Midler Ave
Syracuse, NY 13206
315-434-9477
Camp Good Days & Special
Times
Southern Tier
179 Graham Rd. Suite B
Ithaca, NY 14850
607-266-9180
Camp Good Days & Special
Times
Central Florida
PO Box 292
3956 Town Center Blvd
Orlando, FL 32837
www.campgooddays.org
South- Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida
Camp Rainbow
 Children between the ages of 5-12 who have lost a family member or friend are
invited to apply for participation in Camp Rainbow.
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 Any child who is experiencing difficulty with the grieving process, and who would
benefit from learning more about grief and loss, may attend the camp, regardless
of the length of time since the death or the cause of death
www.hospicesupportcare.org/camprainbow.html
Hospice Support Care, Inc.
1701 Fall Hill Ave., Suite 109
Fredericksburg, VA 2240
(540-361-7071)
Camp ReLEAF
Is a spring weekend bereavement camp for youth (grades kindergarten through eighth
grade) who have recently experienced the death of a significant person.
 At Camp ReLEAF, children come together in a safe environment to explore their
feelings with other children who have had similar losses. Camp ReLEAF offers all
the fun of camp while creating a safe place for youth to express and deal with their
grief.
Our camp offers youth the following benefits:
 Help young people develop skills for coping with loss
 An opportunity to be with peers and know they are not alone
 A fun way to feel safe in expressing and dealing with grief
 20 years of experience dealing with bereaved teens
The camp is staffed by Duke Hospice Bereavement Services staff and trained volunteers
Camp ReLEAF
UNICORN BEREAVEMENT CENTER
1001 Corporate Drive
Hillsborough, NC 27278
919-644-686
www.dukehealth.org/services/duke_home_care_hospice/programs/duke-bereavementservices/camp-releaf/
Camp Good Grief
Camp Good Grief is a 3 day camp held in the fall, winter, and spring. Our fourth camp is a
reunion camp held during the summer for campers to share memories and new experiences.
Who Attends?
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Children, ages 5-15, who have lost a loved one and are residents of Palm Beach and
Broward Counties
Where is it Located?
Camp is held in a serene wooded setting in Lake Worth, FL complete with 12 air
conditioned cabins, dining facilities, and recreational areas.
(561) 416-5059 or (561) 416- 5106
www.campgoodgrief.org/about.htm
Camp Celebrate Hope
Camp Celebrate Hope is an annual weekend retreat for youth ages 6-14 who are grieving
the death of a loved one. The camp is uniquely designed to help participants share
memories and explore feelings with others who have had a similar loss.
The Camp consists of educational, interactive groups as well as recreational time for
activities such as swimming, and arts and crafts. A special memorial service also allows the
campers to commemorate their loved one.
HospiceCare of the Piedmont, Boardroom
408 West Alexander Avenue
Greenwood, SC
864.227.9393
www.hospicepiedmont.org/index.php?content=grief_support
Camp Courage
Camp Courage creates an unforgettable recreational experience for children and teens
with cancer or blood disorders from the Upstate of South Carolina, western North
Carolina, and Northeast Georgia.
Camp Courage takes places at The Pleasant Ridge Camp & Retreat Center between
Greenville SC and Asheville North Carolina.
(864) 455-8741
www.ghschildrens.org/camp-courage.php
West Coast- Washington State
Camp Erin
Camp Erin is the largest nationwide network of bereavement camps for children and teens
ages 6-17 who have experienced the death of someone close to them.
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 There are currently more than 40 camps in over 25 states including one in Canada.
It is a weekend-long experience filled with traditional, fun, camp activities combined with
grief education and emotional support -- facilitated by grief professionals and trained
volunteers.
At Camp Erin, children are comforted knowing that there are other children who
understand exactly what they are feeling and experiencing.
At Camp Erin, grieving children have an opportunity to address their feelings and
memorialize their loved ones. They are provided with tools and resources for use during
and after camp, including memories and friendships that last long after camp is complete.
www.moyerfoundation.org
The Moyer Foundation
2426 32nd Ave W
Seattle WA, 98199
(206) 298-1217
Camps for Medically-Fragile Kids
Fresh air, new friends, crafts, and of course campfire skits: Even medically-fragile kids
can be happy campers at summer camps designed for their specific needs.
Pediatric Home Service (PHS) encourages families to consider summer camp for their kids.
Counselors, staff members, cooks, guides, therapists, and 24-hour on-call health care
professionals bring unique training, expertise, and enthusiasm for working with medicallyfragile kids.
Most of all, kids learn they’re not at all alone.
The summer camps Listed below are for medically-fragile kids in the Twin Cities and
surrounding areas. I only listed a few as the brochure listed below is a great resource for
the remaining camps not listed.
For more camps check out the PDF brochure located at
www.pediatrichomeservice.com/docs/Summer%20camps%20for%20medicallyfraigle%20kids.pdf
Contact Information:
Social Worker Monica Handlos at 651-789-9215 or email her
mlhandlos@pediatrichomeservice.com.
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You may also contact United Way First Call for Help for additional camps at 651-291-0211
or 1-800-543-7709
Midwest- Minnesota, Minneapolis & Wisconsin
Camp SuperKids in Loretto, Minneapolis (YMCA Camp Ihduhapi)
Cynthia Piette, Director of Camp SuperKids at 651-268-7587.
Camp Superkids is an educational and fun summer camp where children with moderate to
severe asthma learn to better manage and control their disease.
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At educational sessions, campers learn what asthma is, how asthma attacks start,
how they can be avoided, and how asthma can be better managed
They learn the difference between medications they take to prevent attacks and
the medications they take to help stop an attack
Providing support for the families of children with asthma can be just as important
as educating the child themselves. Our Lung HelpLine provides year-round support
to answer any questions campers and their families may have - free of charge
Camp Needlepoint
Camp Needlepoint is a residential camp for children with diabetes ages 8 to 16. Programs
encourage independence and self-management with appropriate medical supervision to
ensure the best possible experience for every camper. For example, younger campers have
fun in a stable, structured program, while older campers welcome the challenge of
canoeing, sailing or rock climbing adventures.
Camp Needlepoint is located at YMCA Camp St. Croix, south of Hudson, WI on a wooded
bluff along the St. Croix River.
American Diabetes Association Office Address
5100 Gamble Drive, Suite 394
St. Louis Park, MN 55416
Camp Address:
YMCA Camp St. Croix
532 County Road F
Hudson, WI 54016
www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/parents-and-kids/ada-camps/camps/2011/adacamp-needlepoint-session-1-2011.html
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Camp Odayin
for children with heart disease. There are three different camps available to children
throughout the year:
 Camp Odayin's residential program is for children with heart disease between 8 and
17 years of age, who would benefit from connecting with other young people who
may share similar health, emotional, and social concerns.
 Camp Odayin's Family Camp takes place in Mid-October each year. It begins on a
Friday afternoon and runs until lunch on Sunday. Family Camp is for families with a
child with heart disease, who would benefit from connecting with other families
who share similar health, emotional, and social concerns.
 Camp Odayin's Day Camp is for children with heart disease that are 6 and 7 years
of age, who would benefit from connecting with other young people who may share
similar health, emotional, and social concerns.
CAMP ODAYIN
P.O. Box 2068
Stillwater, MN 55082
E-Mail: info@campodayin.org
Telephone: 651.351.9185
www.campodayin.com/default.htm
Camp Sunshine
A RETREAT FOR CHILDREN WITH LIFE-THREATENING ILLNESSES AND THEIR
FAMILIES
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Nestled alongside the shores of beautiful Sebago Lake, Camp Sunshine provides
respite, support, joy and hope to children with life-threatening illnesses and their
immediate families through various stages of a child’s illness.
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Families with a child diagnosed with diseases such as cancer, kidney disease, lupus,
solid organ transplants, and other life threatening illnesses attend one of the weeklong camps.
Our focus is on alleviating the strain that a life threatening illness takes not only on
the sick child but also on other family members. Families have an opportunity to
rebuild their relationships together and meet other families facing similar
challenges.

23
Camps for Siblings with Medically Fragile Brothers or Sisters
Hey What about Me? Super Sibs- Camps for medically fragile children and their siblings.
These camps are located throughout the United States and Canada.
www.supersibs.org/programs-and-services/sib-camp-find-a-sib-camp.html#CN
Website has a map of the United States and Canada, click on the state and a list of camps
are listed with information and contact information for the camp(s).
Special Needs Therapy and Respite Camps for Kids
4 My Child Help and Hope for Life
 This website lists camps throughout the United States and Canada for children
with special needs.
www.cerebralpalsy.org/news/special-needs-therapy-and-respite-camps-for-kids/
24
Chapter 3: Community Mental Health Programs
www.wccp-online.org
Child Life Specialists work to support children and families during periods of stress and
trauma, times when the child and/or family’s ability to cope is challenged. This support has
traditionally been given within the hospital setting. It can be transferred to the
community setting to those children and families experiencing periods of mental health
stress and trauma. Child life specialists can make the same essential contributions you see
in the hospital and apply them to the community mental health settings. For children and
youth struggling with mental health issues, CLS can help communities by providing child life
services to those in need.
In this chapter community mental health services provided to children and youth are listed
by state.
25
West Coast- California & Washington State
Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency
Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services
o
o
We serve eligible youth who are at risk for out of home placement and are seriously
emotionally disturbed. The goals of service are to help families achieve positive
outcomes, reduce out of home placements, maintain family and foster care stability,
and decrease the return to Juvenile Hall, psychiatric hospitalization, and out of
home placement.
Services include assessment, individual, family, and group therapy, school based day
treatment, family support, and evaluation for psychiatric hospitalization. Services
are located at multiple school and community sites.
1080 Emeline Avenue,
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
831 454 4000
www.santacruzhealth.org/cmhs/2children.htm
Centra Mental Health Services
Children’s Center- Meeting Family Mental Health Needs

Children’s Center offers specialized outpatient mental health counseling and
psychiatric services for children and adolescents. We believe that successful
treatment occurs through the strength of the therapeutic alliance with the child
and family. Our treatment approach concerns itself with solutions; it is both
positive and non-judgmental. Our approach is collaborative in nature and focuses on
family strengths. Our therapists work toward achieving positive outcomes
identified by the family by building on those strengths.
Children’s Center also provides a school-based mental health program for children
and youth identified as having behavioral or emotional problems that impact their
ability to function successfully in school. Mental health services are available onsite at selected schools in the Evergreen and Vancouver school districts.
415 W. 11th Street
Vancouver, WA 98660
(360) 699-2244
www.thechildrenscenter.org/mentalhealth.php

26
School-based Services
We provide mental health services to children and teens at 30 schools in four school
districts in the county. Therapists work closely with teachers to provide early
intervention, prevent the development of further emotional and behavioral problems, and
help increase a child’s chance of success in the classroom.
4760 South Sepulveda Boulevard
Culver City, California 90230
(310) 390-6612
info@didihirsch.org
www.didihirsch.org/services/family
Kitsap Mental Health Services
Madrona Day Treatment –
 Madrona Day Treatment combines a supportive therapeutic environment with
individualized academics to serve severely emotionally and behaviorally disturbed
children who cannot be accommodated in their home schools.
 The goal of MDT is to help children develop the skills necessary to be successful at
home, in school and in their relationships with others.
5455 Almira Drive NE
Bremerton, WA 98311
360-479-4994
www.kitsapmentalhealth.org
West- Colorado & Nevada
Early Childhood Mental Health Services – birth to six years of age
Early Childhood Mental Health Services provides services to children between birth and six
years of age with emotional disturbance or high risk factors for emotional and behavioral
disturbance and associated developmental delays. The goal of services is to strengthen
27
parent-child relationships, support the family’s capacity to care for their children and to
enhance the child’s social and emotional functioning.







Behavioral and psychological assessments,
Individual, family, and group therapies and behavioral management,
Psychiatric services,
Day treatment,
In-home crisis intervention,
Childcare and pre-school consultation, outreach, and training,
Clinical case management.
4126 Technology Way, Room 100
Carson City, NV 89706-2009
(775) 684-4000
www.dcfs.state.nv.us
Mental Health Center of Denver- Community Based Child and Family Services
Intensive In-Home Family Therapy Services – Ages 3-17
 This intensive program serves children, and youth with serious emotional
disturbances and serious disruptive or delinquent behavior who are at risk of outof-home placement, juvenile detention or hospitalization. It also serves children and
youth who are transitioning from higher levels of care (i.e. hospitalization) back into
the community.
Helping families
 The Intensive In-Home Family Services team utilizes cutting-edge research
supported approaches to address the needs of clients and their families. Helping
families develop effective coping skills to meet the challenges of raising a child
with serious emotional or behavioral disturbance. This program encourages and
helps the family develop a network of community support.
4141 E Dickenson Place
Denver, CO 80222
303.504.6500
www.mhcd.org
28
South- Virginia
Intensive In-Home Services
Services are currently offered in Lynchburg, Roanoke, Lexington and surrounding counties.
We serve children between the ages of 4 to 18 with:
 Emotional and behavioral challenges which put them at risk of removal from their
homes.
 Difficulty in maintaining healthy personal relationships, resulting in conflicts with
those around them.
 Previous interventions through the schools, judicial system, residential treatment,
hospitals or other mental health providers.
 Diagnoses of, but not limited to, attention deficit disorder (ADD), posttraumatic
stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, conduct disorder, schizophrenia,
autism spectrum disorders and attachment issues.
1920 Atherholt Road
Lynchburg, VA 24501
 For Lynchburg and surrounding counties, please contact Melissa Buick
at 434.444.5865.
 For Lexington, please contact Teresa Kennedy at 540.588.9648.
 For Roanoke, please contact Carla Warner at 540.525.8447.
mentalhealth.centrahealth.com/services/community-based-programs
East Coast- Massachusetts, Maine & Pennsylvania
North Suffolk Mental Health Association
CASAStart Program
CASASTART is a school-centered positive youth development program aimed at preventing
substance abuse and violence among high-risk 8 to 13-year-olds and helping them to
improve their school attendance, grades, and behavior.


Offers children a safe place and support outside regular school hours to get the
tools they need to succeed. All programs are composed of eight core services:
social support, family services, education services (such as tutoring/homework
assistance), out-of-school/summer activities, mentoring, morale-building incentives,
community policing and juvenile justice intervention.
Each child enrolled in CASASTART receives an individual service plan featuring all
eight core services. Each student has a case manager who meets with them several
times per week.
29

Case managers also meet with their families at least once a month and make regular
home visits to address the family context and see what additional services may be
needed.
151 Pauline Street
Winthrop, MA 02152
617-539-5849
northsuffolk.org/programs/child-family-services/casa-start/
Child and Family Focus, Inc.
Family Based Mental Health Services
 Family Based Mental Health Services are designed to provide community based
therapy and support services to children and adolescents with emotional and
behavioral problems. FBMHS provides therapy in a family’s home by a two-person
team under the supervision of a Program Director.
 The goal of the program is to enhance parents’ feelings of empowerment and selfefficiency so they can help themselves and their children become psychologically
and financially self-sufficient. The function of FBMHS is to assist families with
maintaining their child in the home rather than in a psychiatric or residential
facility.
Child & Family Focus, Inc.
P.O. Box 365
Valley Forge, PA 19481
(610) 783-1788
www.childandfamilyfocus.org/services/family-based-mental-health-services
Community Health and Counseling Services
Multidimensional Treatment
 Multidimensional Treatment (MT) is an evidenced-based practice that provides an
alternative to group or institutional placement for adolescents, ages 12-17, with
disruptive and complex co-morbid disorders who meet the criteria for out-of-home
placement regardless of custody status.
 These youth may have a history of law violations and other problems, such as school
failure, family problems, aggression, drug and alcohol use, poor peer relations, poor
coping and social skills, minimal work skills, and low self-esteem.
42 Cedar Street
Bangor, Maine 04402
207-947-0366
www.chcs-me.org
30
Canada- Ontario
Safe Haven Shelter


Safe Haven Shelter offers Waterloo Region youth a safe alternative to living on
the street. Serving vulnerable 12-15 year olds who are at risk of being homeless,
this program offers immediate admission and services for up to 10 youth on a 24
hour/7 day a week basis.
In a safe, caring environment, staff coach youth to address needs and help them
return home (if appropriate) or find another safe living arrangement.
Our program uses a client focused, strengths-based approach to develop life and social
skills, build self-esteem, manage emotions and promote health and wellness.
The center also offers:
 Food, clothing, laundry, shower facilities and access to medical care.
 Assistance with family reintegration.
 Assistance attending school and community activities.
 Links to other community-based youth and family supports and services.
Prevention-based Services
 Family support
 Runaway prevention
 Skill-development
 Educational support
 Community resource support
41 Weber St W
Kitchener, ON N2H 3Z1
519- 749-8305
www.lutherwood.ca/mentalhealth/services/safe-haven-shelter
31
Midwest- Illinois
Family Service and Community Mental Health Center
Child & Adolescent Program
 This Program focuses on assisting youth and their families in addressing issues that
affect their healthy developmental growth and well-being.
 This Program serves youth of both sexes up to the age of 18 who are experiencing
problems resulting from divorce adjustment, low self-esteem, parent-child
relationships, physical or sexual abuse, depression, substance abuse, attention
deficit disorder and other issues.
4100 Veterans Parkway
McHenry, IL 60050
815-385-640
www.familyserviceonline.org
www.familyserviceonline.org
32
Chapter 4: Regional Centers- Early Childhood Intervention
www2.ku.edu
A major role of a child life specialist is to advocate for children and families in the
healthcare setting. A CLS working in an early intervention program also serves as a parent
educator by teaching parents what he or she can do to enhance their child’s development.
Many child life skills can be used in early intervention settings. Listening skills and the
ability to build a relationship with each family is important. Knowledge of child
development and the impact of chronic conditions on the child and family are essential.
Understanding sibling’s needs and including them in helping them understand is important
as well. Overall, the child life specialist’s unique skills are an asset in the field of early
intervention.
In the chapter early childhood intervention centers in a variety of states will be listed.
The centers listed provide services to children from birth to three years and are provided
in the early intervention centers.
33
South- Texas & Kansas
Early Childhood Intervention: Making a Difference






Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) serves babies and toddlers with developmental
delays or atypical development as well as those with medically diagnosed conditions
such as autism, spina bifida, cerebral palsy and Down syndrome.
ECI providers create customized therapy programs for each child, using specialized
teams of physical, occupational and speech therapists, social workers, dieticians and
early intervention specialists.
ECI services are designed to enhance children’s long term development and ensure
they reach their full potential.
ECI services are delivered in children’s natural environments, such as their homes
or daycares. This allows services and therapies to be a part of the daily life of the
child and family.
Families are integrated into ECI therapy programs; because of this, parents have to
learn how to address their children’s unique needs and help their children develop
and learn.
ECI is available for children from birth to age three. After their third birthday,
children may be eligible to receive services through their local school district.
Westpark Building 3, Suite 240 •
8140 North Mopac Expressway •
Austin, Texas 78759
512.794.9268
www.txcouncil.com/early_childhood_intervention.aspx
34

Family Service and Guidance Center's Early Childhood Intervention
Program is a comprehensive treatment program for children birth to six
years of age who are experiencing difficulties with their emotional or
behavioral development.

FSGC's Preschool Development Center is unique in that they work on skills
like communication, peer relationships, listening, attending, appropriate
problem solving, self-soothing techniques, relaxation and complying with
the group's expectations.
325 SW Frazier • Topeka, KS • 66606
785.232.5005
www.fsgctopeka.com/programs_ecip.cfm
West- New Mexico
ENMRSH, INC.
EARLY CHILDHOOD INTERVENTION Services
 Early intervention services will be provided in settings where the child typically
spends their day (for example, home, childcare, with other family members or other
community settings).
 Children learn and develop through the ongoing relationships with their parents and
others in their life.
 Early Intervention services can help families find opportunities for learning within
in their child's daily routines such as playtime, mealtime, bedtime etc.
Early Intervention services offered through ENMRSH ECI may include:
 Audiology
 Family education, counseling and home visits
 Occupational therapy
 Physical therapy
 Service coordination
 Special instruction
 Speech-language therapy
 Bilingual Service Providers (English or Spanish)
35
2700 East 7th Street
PO Box 1989
Clovis, NM 88101
575.762.3718
www.enmrsh.org/early.php
www.enrsh.org
West Coast- California
Intervention Center for Early Childhood
 Our programs, which serve children from birth to 6 years of age, enhance the
development of children with known or suspected delays. ICEC provides in-center
programs and in-home programs.
 Our programs, which are delivered in a small group setting, are comprehensive and
include speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, sensory integration,
general developmental therapy, behavior management, and social/academic skill
development.
 Additional services include counseling for family members, respite care,
developmental assessments and a preschool interaction with typical peers.
 We believe families are a big part of the process. At ICEC we provide a parent
participation early intervention program that will train and assist parents in helping
their child to maximize their developmental potential. ICEC's staff and the parents
work together to provide an individually tailored program for each child, thereby
maximizing a child's development.
16269 Laguna Canyon Road
Irvine, CA 92618
Phone (949) 788-9236
www.iceckids.org/html/programs.htm
36
www.icekids.org
Midwest- Minnesota
Minnesota Department of Health
Help Me Grow
Minnesota's Early Intervention System
Minnesota's early intervention system - Help Me Grow - includes two programs for eligible
children.
 Help Me Grow: Infant and Toddler Intervention are special services and supports
for children birth through age two and their families.
 These services are provided for children who may be experiencing delays in their
development for several reasons, including special health conditions.
 Help Me Grow: Preschool Special Education is for eligible children ages three to
five years. Minnesota children eligible for Help Me Grow can receive services in
their home, child care setting or school.
 These services are based on the needs of preschool children who meet state
eligibility criteria for developmental delay or other disability, and who are
experiencing challenges in their learning and development.
 Children may be eligible if they are not able to learn, speak or play like other
children who are the same age
P.O. Box 64975
St. Paul, MN 55164-0975
651-201-5000
www.health.state.mn.us/divs/fh/mcshn/ecip.htm
East Coast- New York & New Jersey
Arc’s Children’s School for Early Development provides educational, social and support
services for children, from birth to five years of age, and their families.
37
Early intervention programs serve children from birth through three years of age.
Services include:
 Evaluations which may be performed at home or in community setting;
 Service coordination which assists families in accessing and monitoring services and
resources for their child;
 Home and community intervention, which provides special instruction, speech
therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy and social work services either at
home or in community programs;
 Full inclusion parent-child programs at pre-schools located throughout
Westchester County; and parent-child support groups, which meet monthly to share
concerns, information and support, and to enjoy family playtime.
Pre-school serves children from three to five years of age. Services include:




Evaluations performed by a team of professionals at our centrally located site or at
community settings throughout Westchester;
Related services and Special Education Itinerant Teachers (SEIT), assistant
teachers, aides and speech therapists who provide their services at community
programs;
Special classes in an integrated setting, where children with disabilities, including
those who have autism or pervasive developmental disorders (PDD), attend a larger
class with typically developing students in settings throughout Westchester;
Full-day center-based pre-school classes held at our centrally located site in
Hawthorne, New York, and serving children from both Westchester and Putnam
Counties.
40 Saw Mill River Road,
Hawthorne, New York.
914.347.3227
www.westchesterarc.org/services/early_childhood.html
38
Sunny Days Early Childhood Developmental Services is an Early Intervention
Provider serving children from birth to three years with developmental needs.
Services are provided in natural environments that include family homes, child care
settings and other community locations.
 We provide a full range of services, including Physical Therapy, Occupational
Therapy, Speech Therapy and Psychological services, specifically tailored to each
child’s Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).
Services Provided Include:
 Independent Initial Eligibility Evaluations
 Family-Centered Play Based Evaluations
 Individual Home & Community Based Services available for children with a diagnosis
of Autism and PDD to include ABA and “Greenspan”/DIR and Sensory Integration.
 Specific Assessments in fine motor, gross motor, speech, feeding, oral/motor,
cognition, social-emotional development and challenging behaviors.
 Consultative Services
 Translation Services
 Nursing and Social Work Assessments
 Recommendations for Adaptive Equipment & Assistive Technology
 Private Home-Based Therapy for children ages birth through 18
300 Corporate Center Drive
Manalapan, NJ 07726-8700
Phone: 732-761-0088
www.sunnydays.com/nj/home
*Sunny Days services are also available in New York, Pennsylvania and California*
39
Chapter 5: Child Development Settings- Head Start Programs and Programs for
Medically Fragile Children
www.educationnews.org
A Child Life Specialist’s role in a child development setting is to establish a trusting,
therapeutic relationship with the child and family. Developing rapport with children and
families, child development and family dynamics are all important skills child life can bring
to a child development setting. The ability to work as part of a team in the delivery of care
and creating a family centered environment is the central role child life specialists have
working in the hospital setting which can be applied to a child development setting.
In this chapter head start programs for children from birth to age five will be listed as
well as programs for medically fragile children. Each program is unique but the main goal of
these programs is to help children get the best education, care and support they need.
40
East Coast-New York & Pennsylvania

Head Start is a Federal program for preschool children between the ages of three
and five from low-income families. Children participate in a variety of educational
activities, receive free medical and dental care, have healthy meals and snacks, and
enjoy playing indoors and outdoors in a safe setting.
Head Start helps all children succeed. Services are offered to meet the special
needs of children with disabilities.
 Schuyler Head start offers:
 Preschool Education
 Nutrition Education
 Health and Dental
 Hygiene
Services
Development
 Kindergarten Transition
 Small Bus
 Alcohol and Drug
Transportation
Prevention

323 Owego St. Unit I
Montour Falls, NY 14865
Phone: 607-535-6814
www.schuylerheadstart.org
The Children’s Aid Society
Early Head Start


The Children’s Aid Society Early Head Start program is an early intervention and
prevention program for families with children ages 0 – 3 and pregnant mothers.
Through its comprehensive and integrated services, the program aims to provide a
foundation for children and families to thrive developmentally. Early Head Start
seeks to empower families and building in the strengths of families.
Early Head Start emphasizes that cognitive, physical, social, emotional and language
development are interrelated. The program supports families in creating healthy,
pro-social environments that promote the well-being of children and families
41
EHS Program Components
 Health
 Nutrition
 Social Service
 Education
 Special Needs
 Services to Pregnant Mother
Special Programs
 Infant Massage
 Doula Services
 Nutrition Classes
Marlene Aranda-Gillman,
105 East 22nd Street
New York, NY 10010
(212) 567-5787 x221
www.childrensaidsociety.org/early-childhood/early-head-start





Head Start offers educational programs for children age 3 to 5, and a wide variety
of opportunities and support services for their families.
When children love learning, everything else falls into place. Every day at Head
Start children enjoy all kinds of activities and games designed to teach everything
from numbers and letters to sharing and getting along with others.
They learn to love books and get a good foundation for reading. They learn about
nature and science through fun, hands-on activities.
They paint and draw, dress up and play music all to encourage the special curiosity,
imagination and joy of childhood. And that’s just the beginning.
All Head Start children play in parks and playgrounds, and go on field trips, both in
the local community and throughout New York City.
42


All programs are multilingual and include children and families from different
ethnic and cultural backgrounds. At Head Start, diversity is celebrated both in and
out of the classroom, and even at mealtimes with a variety of traditional foods.
When it’s time to move on, Head Start children leave with the confidence and skills
they need to succeed in kindergarten, first grade and beyond
New York, New York
(212-232-0966)
www.nyc.gov/html/acs/html/child_care/headstart.shtml
Pennsylvania Head Start Association




Head Start is a comprehensive preschool program for low-income three, four, and
five year olds. It provides children with a developmentally appropriate early
childhood education. The program ensures that young children get health checkups
and treatment, and that they are fed a nutritious hot meal every day.
In Head Start, teachers work with children, and their families, to help them gain
the skills needed to succeed in school- both academically and socially.
The program offers comprehensive health, nutrition, and other family support
services including opportunities to learn parenting skills. Head Start provides
children with activities that help them grow mentally, socially, emotionally, and
physically.
Head Start children socialize with others, solve problems, and have other
experiences that help them to become self-confident.
3700 Vartan Way
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Phone: (717) 526-4646
www.paheadstart.org
43
South- South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Texas & Florida
South Carolina
State Head Start Association
Early Head Start is the free, early, continuous, intensive, and comprehensive child
development and family support program for low-income families with children from birth
to age three. Services are provided on a year round basis to enhance the physical, social,
emotional, and intellectual development of infants and toddlers and pregnant women.
2700 Middleburg Drive, Suite 213
Post Office Box 81
Columbia, South Carolina 29204
(803) 771-9404
www.sc-headstart.org
The Mountain Area
Child and Family Center



Early Head Start (EHS) promotes healthy prenatal outcomes for pregnant women,
enhances the development of very young children, and promotes healthy family
functioning.
EHS incorporates current research and best practice in providing services to lowincome young children and their families.
Early Head Start is an intensive, comprehensive, flexible, culturally sensitive
program that is designed to reinforce and respond to the unique strengths and
needs of each individual child and family.
The program services include:
 Quality early education both in and out of the home
 Parenting education
 Comprehensive health and mental health services, including services to women
before, during, and after pregnancy
 Nutrition education
44

Family support services
2586 Riceville Road
Asheville, NC 28805
(828) 298-0808
www.macfc.org
Teaching Children
Building Families


Head Start of Greater Dallas services 4,403 low-income, preschool age children,
and their families at 40 center locations throughout Dallas County. In addition, HS
operates 5 Early Head Start centers, which serve 250 pregnant women, infants and
toddlers.
The comprehensive Head Start program provides a rich learning environment
designed to address the child’s nutritional and health needs while stimulating rapid
growth in physical coordination, self-esteem and pre-reading skills. Children have
access to computers and become adept at utilizing them as learning tools.
3954 Gannon Lane
Dallas, Texas 75237
972.283.6400
www.hsgd.org/About.htm
Georgia Head Start and Early Head Start programs provide comprehensive early
childhood and family development services to children from birth to five-years-old,
pregnant women and families. Our programs have a long tradition of delivering
comprehensive and high quality services designed to foster healthy development in lowincome children and their families
Ms. Susie D. Wilcher
P.O. Box 896
45
Sandersville, GA 31082
(478) 240-0925 x204
www.georgiaheadstart.org
West Coast- Oregon & California
Head Start of Lane County
Early Head Start
 Designed for children 0-35 months (has not turned 3 years of age by September
1st of the current enrollment year) you may qualify for our home-based or
classroom-based Early Head Start programs. There are also options for working
families that need full-day childcare.
 Additionally, our Early Head Start program features a Prenatal Program that
consists of home visits during your pregnancy to provide education and support.
Head Start
 If you have a child that is 3 or 4 years of age by September 1 of the current
enrollment year you may qualify for either our part-day or full-day program. The
focus is on kindergarten readiness, wellness, and social and emotional development.
Early Head Start / Head Start Full Day
 This program is designed for working or student families needing childcare for
children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Classes are five days a week in either a Head
Start classroom or community childcare location.
221 B Street
Springfield, OR 97477
(541) 747-2425
www.hsolc.org
SETA is a joint powers agency of the City and County of Sacramento. Its Head
Start program’s mission is to improve the lives of low-income children by providing
comprehensive child development services that are family focused, including education,
health, nutrition, and mental health.
925 Del Paso Blvd., Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95815
(916) 263-3804
www.headstart.seta.net/program-overview.htm
46
San Diego Head Start
Project Head Start is a federally funded child development program designed to
help break the cycle of poverty by providing preschool children of low- income families
with a comprehensive program to meet their emotional, social, health, nutritional and
psychological needs. The approach is that the parent is the child's primary educator and
that the entire family as well as, the community, must be involved.
 Children ages 3 to 5 are eligible for Head Start. Children with disabilities are
mainstreamed into the program and receive the full range of developmental
services
Early Childhood Development and
Health Services...
To provide high quality, comprehensive
services that foster each child's social
competence by supporting and nurturing
the child's social, emotional, cognitive,
and physical development.
Program Design and Management...
To provide the foundation for quality services
to children and families. Strong, committed
governing bodies and policy groups that
represent Early Head Start and Head Start
parents and the larger community must be
established to provide effective leadership
to, and oversight of the program.
Implementation and Enforcement...
To ensure quality across programs
serving Early Head Start and Head Start
children by requiring that areas of noncompliance or deficiencies with the Head
Start Program Performance Standards
and regulations be remedied as quickly as
possible.
Family and Community Partnerships...
To ensure that each enrolled family is
supported in fostering their child's
development and in attaining their personal
family goals.
San Diego, CA
1-888-873-5145
www.sandiegoheadstart.org/SDHS/home.html
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West- Colorado
Denver’s Great Kids Head Start
Early Childhood Care and Education
 DGKHS provides a high quality comprehensive child development program to eligible
children 3-5 years old and their families to prepare them intellectually, socially,
emotionally, and physically for school and life.
 DGKHS focuses on the development of oral language and family literacy through
ongoing trainings for parents and teachers.
In addition to a high quality pre-school education, every enrolled child also receives:
 complete physical examination and follow-up
 complete dental examination and necessary treatment
 hearing and vision screening
 developmental skills screening and an individualized educational program
 daily nutritious meals
201 West Colfax, Dept 1107
Denver, CO 80202
720-913-0880
DenverHeadStart@denvergov.org
Midwest- Michigan
Michigan Head Start Collaboration Office
 Head Start is a federally funded program serving children ages birth-five that
promotes school readiness by providing educational, health, nutrition, social and
other comprehensive services to enrolled children and families.
 The HSCO is charged with facilitating and enhancing coordination and collaboration
between Head Start agencies and other state and local entities that provide
comprehensive services designed to benefit all low-income children from birth to
age five and their families, as well as pregnant women.
 HSCO is responsible for assisting in the building of early childhood systems
including access to comprehensive services, encourage wide spread collaboration
with appropriate programs and services, and facilitate the involvement of Head
Start in policy and planning efforts that affect the Head Start target population
and other low-income families.
112 E. Allegan Street
Lansing, MI 48933
517.371.9000
greatstartforkids.org/content/michigan-head-start-collaboration-office
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Medically Fragile Children Centers
West Coast- Oregon & California
Providence Health Services
Center for Medically Fragile Children


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We are the only pediatric skilled nursing facility in the Pacific Northwest, providing
24-hour long-term, short-term, respite and end-of-life care to medically fragile
children and young people ranging in age from infancy to 21 years.
When a child has profound disabilities and complex medical needs, providing the
necessary round-the-clock care can be exhausting and overwhelming. For four
decades, families have turned to the Center for Medically Fragile Children
at Providence Child Center. Children at the center receive treatment and education
essential to their well-being.
Our interdisciplinary care team assesses and treats complex medical conditions.
They monitor symptoms, administer medications and provide leading-edge
therapies, such as aquatic therapy. Parents receive information and support to
understand their child's complex medical needs.
830 NE 47th Ave.
Portland, OR 97213
503-215-2400
oregon.providence.org

Darlyn’s Darlings is one of the few pediatric care centers in the country that
provides skilled nursing in a day care setting for children that have a chronic
illness. The children range from infant to 21 years of age and have a condition that
requires daily nursing care and medical devices.

Darlyn’s Darlings, Pediatric Day Health Care Center (PDHC) has served as a
revolutionary approach in fulfilling the daily medical needs, special education, child
care requirements, and case management of medically fragile children.
.
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
Children with special needs are introduced to learning materials, fun activities and
socialization skills. Most importantly their medical needs are fully met by skilled
pediatric medical professionals under supervision of their personal physician.
4801 Truxtun Ave.
Bakersfield, CA 93304
(661)631-2273
www.darlynsdarlings.com


Caring Corner is a unique pediatric day care program designed especially for
nurturing medically fragile children. Utilizing a combination of skilled, creative
activities and a caring touch, the program allows parents to go to school, work or
take a much needed rest.
Children, ranging from infants to 21 years old, who require medical supervision,
treatments or equipment for a medical condition, can receive care at Caring
Corner. Our experienced nursing team works with families to make sure each child
is safe and cared for in an environment suited to meet their needs.
942 Wible Rd.
Bakersfield, CA 93304
(661) 847-7342
caringcorner.org
South- Georgia
PSA HealthCare
Pediatric Day Treatment Centers for Medically Fragile Children (PPEC)
 PSA Healthcare offers unique day treatment centers managed by Pediatric
Registered Nurses (RN) and staffed with skilled nursing and healthcare
professionals who are trained to care for special kids in a safe, caring,
developmentally-stimulating environment.
 Focused on Care Management & Results - Through careful, deliberate care
management and outcomes monitoring, PSA Healthcare PPECs offer high-quality,
cost-effective pediatric care that promotes faster rehabilitation, reduce re-
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hospitalizations, reduces homebound isolation, and supplies a cost-effective
alternative to traditional home health care.
Education & Support Groups

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
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Continuous Education and Support for children and their families. For parents of
children with complex medical needs, the challenge of finding quality child care can
seem overwhelming. For many of these parents, leaving the work force is not an
option. They need income and health care benefits to help offset the costs
associated with caring for a child with a disability. PSA Healthcare PPECs help
families:
Retain independence and a sense of family normalcy
Return to work or school
Improve quality of life and renew hope
Broaden resources, networking opportunities and support
Feel confident knowing their child is in a developmentally-stimulating environment
both physically and socially
310 Technology Parkway
Norcross, GA 30092
770-441-1580
www.psahealthcare.com
Bright Start Pediatrics
Nursing, Therapy and Love
Bright Start Pediatrics offers infants and children with special needs and their families a
level of comfort and the best possible outcomes through our unique program.
BrightStart's PPEC (Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care) program is designed for infants
and children in need of more complex care. In simple terms, we are a center that cares for
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medically fragile infants and children for up to 12 hours per day.
Our team is comprised of pediatric and neonatal nurses, aides and therapists.
As part of our PPEC program, each child will receive:
• Daily, individual nursing assessments
• Continual monitoring of their individual medical needs
• Developmental evaluations, and treatment as indicated
• A Progression Plan tailored to each child
• The brightest future possible
BrightStart works with hospitals in the Orlando and Central Florida area to accept
children directly from the NICU, PICU or general pediatric unit.
If additional services are necessary upon discharge (home nursing, pharmacy, home
medical equipment), BrightStart Pediatrics will arrange for those services, and coordinate
a smooth transition home.
Therapies
Developmental Therapies are an extremely important part of the BrightStart program.
Children enrolled in our PPEC program receive therapy at the time of day and frequency
that will optimize their performance. We are able to minimize missed sessions with the
flexibility to see them another day, if necessary.
BrightStart therapists work hand in hand with our nurses and aides to promote optimal
developmental handling throughout the day. All of these factors enable us to make the
most of each day.
BrightStart PPEC centers provide onsite services for:
Physical Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Speech Therapy
12377 South Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando, FL 32837
407.857.1212
www.brightstartpeds.com
East Coast- Pennsylvania & New York
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Helping Hand Children’s Center
 Helping Hand Children's Center is a pediatric extended care center (PECC) that
provides expert skilled nursing and child development services to medically fragile
children who may also be technologically dependent.
 The staff of Helping Hand Children's Center understands the unique and
specialized needs of each child. The program also provides support services to
parents.
 As an alternative or supplement to in-home nursing care, Helping Hand Children's
Center allows parents to return to work or school or attend to other family
responsibilities, confident that the unique medical, emotional and developmental
needs of their children are being met every day.
2159 Oregon Pike
Lancaster, PA 17601
715-581-1050
www.helpinghandpa.com
Angela’s House
Angela's House assists families caring for medically frail children living at home with their
parents or in special homes that offer 24 hour nursing support
In 1992, the non for profit Angela’s House, was created to offer families and
professionals an agency to call to help medically frail children and their families. Angela’s
House has helped to simplify home care options for families by coordinating the extensive
array of services needed to support medically frail children at home.
P.O. Box 5052
Hauppauge, NY 11788
Phone: 631-979-2620
angelashouse.org
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The Elaine Clark Center enables children of all abilities to become confident and
contributing citizens of the community through an innovative model of education,
therapeutic play, and experiential opportunities.
Mission
The mission of the Elaine Clark Center is to enable children of all abilities to become
confident & contributing citizens of the community through an innovative model of
education, therapeutic play, and experiential opportunities.
Programs
Inclusive Childcare
Early Intervention
Therapeutic Intervention Program-Child Development Specialist CCLS
Pediatric Nursing
Nutrition
Echo out of school services
5130 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard
Chamblee, GA 30341
(770) 458-3251
www.elaineclarkcenter.org
Midwest- Illinois & Missouri
Maryville Academy
 Maryville's Children's Healthcare Center is a long-term acute and sub-acute care
facility that provides specialized clinical care for medically fragile children, ages
newborn through 21. The Center is a "home away from home" for medically fragile
children and their families.

The Center provides care to medically fragile children, also known as medically
complex, who may be technology-dependent (e.g., ventilators, apnea monitoring) and
training for parents, caregivers, and siblings to help them become more confident
when attending to the fragile child's specialized needs. The Center also offers
respite care for caregivers, giving them much needed breaks from demanding
schedules.
4015 N Oak Park Avenue
Chicago, IL 60634
Phone (773) 205-3606
54
www.maryvilleacademy.org/subpages.asp?id=99&aparentid=116
Project ARK
The mission of Project ARK is to provide services that enhance the lives of children,
youth, young adults, women and families infected, affected and at risk for HIV disease
through coordination of medical care, social support and prevention services.
4169 Laclede Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63108
314.535.7275
Stacey Slovacek, CLS (Family Support Specialist) 314-454-4714
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Chapter 6: Pediatric Home Care Programs
kidscaretherapy.com
The Child Life Specialist’s role in the pediatric home care setting is to work with families
in their home environment by offering support, education and interventions designed to
address specific needs. The CLS can help address the coping needs of siblings, provide
comfort pain and symptom relief to the child. CLS can offer opportunities for the child to
reach appropriate developmental milestones and to maintain those already acquired. Child
life specialists are a natural fit in the pediatric home care setting and the skills used in
the hospital setting can be applied to this alternative setting.
In this chapter pediatric home care settings throughout the US are listed. Each of these
setting is unique in the services they provide, but each setting offers families help in
providing care for their child in the home environment.
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South- Florida, Virginia & Kentucky
Interim Health Care
Pediatric Home Health Care

Thanks to technological advances, pediatric home health care has become a viable
alternative to a health care facility. It can reduce costs considerably. And patients
and their families, understandably, prefer to receive care in the comfort of their
own homes.

Interim HealthCare employees offer a wide variety of services for all aspects of
treatment and support, from highly skilled nursing care to light housekeeping and
meal preparation.
We even offer respite care to provide much-needed breaks for the family.
Our employees can also instruct the family in care procedures. This not only keeps
the interruption of day-to-day living to a minimum, but also helps assure that the
most appropriate and optimal care is always available.


Interim HealthCare National Headquarters
1601 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway
Sunrise, FL 33323
(800) 338-7786
www.interimhealthcare.com
*Locations available throughout the United States*
South Eastern Home Health Services
Pediatric Home Care Program
Caring for a child with a major illness is a labor of love, but it's something you and your
family need not do alone. At SHHS, we're ready to pitch in and help. SHHS' Pediatric
division helps families by providing professional and compassionate home care specifically
designed to meet the special needs of children, of all ages, from infant to young adult. Our
staff is made up of pediatric specialists at every level of home health care.
Some of our core Pediatric programs are:
 Home Care for Technologically Dependent Children
 Home Care For New Mothers And Well Baby/Well Mom Services
 Home Care For High Risk Infants & Children
 Home Care For Childhood Illnesses
 Home Rehabilitation Care
 Homemaker service
 Respite Care
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Whatever your child’s need, we can provide the personnel, and the required medical
equipment and supplies. One of our case managers will meet with you to assess your child’s
need and formulate a plan of action for his or her specific care.
7502 Lee Davis Road
Mechanicsville, VA 23111
Phone: 804-769-1380
www.sehealth.com
7 Locations in Pennsylvania also
Toll Free # -866-285-2007
Pediatric Home Care
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Daniel's Care is a special pediatric care program provided by Hospice of the
Bluegrass. If your child has been diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, Daniel's
Care is available to help with the overwhelming responsibilities.
A specially trained team of multi-disciplinary professionals works specifically with
children who have life-threatening illnesses. This specialized team cares for anyone
from birth to 21 years of age. Using this Hospice service allows children to be at
home with family and friends maintaining a familiar lifestyle.
Nurses will come to your home and help with the medical care of your child. Social
workers and therapists will work with your child and other family members on
coping with the illness.
Home care aides can help with patient care and light housekeeping. Volunteers are
available for any type of help including companionship for the patient or other
children, transportation, errands, story reading or providing a break for the parent
or caregiver.
Hospice of the Bluegrass
2312 Alexandria Drive
Lexington, KY 40504
(859) 276-5344
www.hospicebg.org
Midwest- Michigan, Minnesota and Indiana
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Home and Hospice Care
PEDIATRIC HOME CARE SERVICES
Many acute illnesses and aggravations of chronic conditions can be treated effectively at
home. Our pediatric nurses coordinate the home care team so that the child’s physician
can closely monitor each child.
Our Pediatric Home Care Team can assist with:
 Problems commonly found in premature infants, i.e. slow weight gain, feeding
difficulties, and respiratory complications
 Follow-up services for mothers and infants discharged early after birth.
 Phototherapy
 Apnea monitoring
 Wound care
 Home infusion therapy, parenteral nutrition, and antibiotic therapy
 Dispensing medications and monitoring side effects
 Catheter changes
 Orthopedic needs
Physical, occupational, and speech therapists provide services to medically fragile
children with special needs:
 Muscle strengthening
 Range of motion and muscle coordination
 Speech development difficulties
Pediatric Home Care Programs
3933 Beecher Road
Flint, MI 48532
(810) 762-4600
www.genesys.org
59
Universal Pediatric Services
Universal Pediatric Services specializes in in-home health care and private-duty nursing
services for children and young adults with serious medical conditions.
Universal Pediatric Services offers a continuum of in-home health care for children and
young adults with serious medical conditions and complex technological needs.
Universal's skilled RNs, LPNs and home health aides are selectively recruited and
specifically trained for each individual case. Our nurses have experience with ventilator,
feeding tube, tracheotomy and IV requirements.
Some of the in-home services we offer on a 24-hour, 7-days-a-week basis include:
 Suctioning
 Respiratory monitoring
 Trachea cares
 G-tube cares
 Medications
 Assisting clients at school
6750 Westown Parkway
Suite 115A
West Des Moines, IA 50266
(800) 383-0303
www.universalpediatric.com

Pediatric Home Service helps medically-fragile, technology-supported children not
only live, but thrive at home, with their families.
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A Minnesota independent pediatric home health care agency specializing in children,
we provide our patients and their families with a broad spectrum of high quality,
compassionate care, services and support.
Our services:
 Respiratory Therapy
 Infusion Therapy
 Pharmacy
 Private Duty Nursing
 In-Home
 Asthma Management
 Clinical Support Services

2800 Cleveland Avenue North
Roseville, MN 55113
651-642-1825
www.pediatrichomeservice.com
East Coast- New Jersey & New York
Pediatric Service Offering
At Loving Care and Links2Care, our clinical staff are touching lives and making a difference
by providing highly skilled clinicians to deliver home-based care for our patients with
varying levels of medical need. By meeting the unique needs of our youngest patients with
unsurpassed skill and compassion, we are setting new standards of excellence for pediatric
home care. We do this by providing outstanding skilled clinical care and advocating for the
families. We assist the families in finding solutions that support the family's goal of
bringing their medically complex child home to familiar loving surroundings.
Private duty care may include services provided by multiple professional disciplines such
as: Pediatric Nursing, Home Health Aides and Physical Therapists. These professionals
provide services to ensure a smooth transition home for pediatric patients across a wide
range of diagnoses
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Corporate Headquarters
Loving Care Agency
611 Route 46 West, Suite 200
Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604
Phone: (201) 403-9300
www.lovingcareagency.com
*Services available in these states:
New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Illinois, Massachusetts and Arizona
All Metro Health Care
Pediatric Home Care


It is the company’s goal to provide the support and care that will enable families
who are facing the challenges of caring for an ill child to feel comfortable and
confident that their child is receiving the attention and treatment he or she
needs. All Metro Health Care provides hourly or around the clock services in a wellcoordinated, family centered approach to meet the complex needs of these
patients and their caregivers.
All Metro Health Care’s pediatric home care program is designed to care for
children who have complex medical needs. With the help of our highly trained
caregivers, children with severe illnesses can receive love and support in a nurturing
home environment, rather than an institution such as a nursing home or hospital.
New Jersey, New York and Florida Locations
www.all-metro.com
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Hospice Buffalo
Essential Care for Children
 Essential Care is a special way of caring for a child with a life-threatening illness.
Our program, the first of its kind in the United States, is a pediatric program of
Home Care Buffalo, an affiliate of The Center for Hospice & Palliative Care.
 Our program works closely with The Children's Hospital of Buffalo and Roswell Park
Cancer Institute. We give a child and family complete and consistent care physical, spiritual and emotional - at home or in the hospital.
 Essential Care is available to children, from infancy through adolescence, who have
been diagnosed with a life-threatening illness.
 We care for children who live in Erie, Niagara, and parts of Genesee and
Cattaraugus counties.
225 Como Park Boulevard
Cheektowaga, NY 142270-1480
(716) 686-8006
www.hospicebuffalo.com
West Coast- California
Building Blocks Pediatric Home Health Services is a high-tech home care service
exclusively for children -- premature infants through adolescents.
We are the leading provider of purely pediatric home care in Southern California and offer
a complete suite of pediatric and neonatal services including: skilled nursing, home infusion,
medical equipment, and much more
Home Care Services
Building Blocks offers a total package of pediatric programs and services designed
exclusively for infants, children and adolescents.
Corporate Offices / Southern California
6 Journey, Suite 135
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Tel: (949) 448-5770
www.care4kids.com
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UC Davis Home Care Services For Children and Adolescents
We are a family-centered, supportive program that provides safe medical care for
children in the comfortable environment of their own home. Pediatric patients have unique
needs that are often better taken care of at home. Our program allows patients to stay
close to family and friends, and maintain as normal a routine as possible.
Pediatric Home Care includes more than just caring for the patient. We are caring for the
family as a unit. Patients and families need to be involved, informed and feel secure. We
include families in treatment-related decisions and we individualize care plans to fit
patient needs and family lifestyles. We provide education and support to families and
caregivers to help build the skills and confidence needed for required procedures and
treatments.
2315 Stockton Blvd
Sacramento, CA 95817
(800) 282- 3284 www.ucdmc.ucdavis.edu
West- Colorado
Professional Pediatric Home Care, Inc.
Nursing
We have Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
experienced in performing care according to the patients’ needs and
doctors’ orders.
Nursing Care Includes:
 Respiratory Care Oxygen
 Nebulizer Treatments
 Ventilator
 Tracheotomy Care Special Monitoring Apnea
 Oximetry
 Cardiac Monitors Special Feeding Needs Gastrostomy
 Nasal Gastric
 Central Line Therapies
Therapies
Our therapists specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and management of
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infants, children and adolescents with a variety of congenital,
developmental, neurological or acquired disorders/diseases.
Therapies Include
 Physical Therapy including NDT (neuro developmental treatment),
Stretching/ROM (range of motion),ADL (activities of daily living),
Strengthening, Gait Training, Equipment Needs, Developmental
Milestones, Therapeutic Exercise, and Family Teaching.
 Occupational Therapy including NDT (neuro developmental
treatment), SI (sensory integration), ADL (activities of daily
living), Therapeutic Exercise, Balance/Equilibrium, Fine Motor
Coordination, Stretching/ROM (range of motion),Visual Motor
Control, Oral Motor Coordination, Cognitive Processing/Attention,
and Family Teaching.
 Speech Therapy including treatments for Voice Disorders, NonOral Communication ,Articulation Disorders, Dysphagia/Feeding
Disorders, Language Disorders, Speech/Language Stimulation,
Alternative Communication Device Training, and Family Teaching.
8000 E. Prentice Ave., B11
Greenwood Village, Colorado 80111
303-759-1342
www.pediatrichomecare.com
www.pediatrichomecare.org
65
Chapter 7: Pediatric Dental Settings
www.rozasdds.com
A dental office is a world full of strange sensations, sights, sounds, tastes, and smells. A
child life specialist can help the child feel more comfortable and lessen their stress and
anxiety. A child life specialist can also prepare the child for their visit, upcoming dental
procedures or examinations and provide the child with coping strategies, distraction, and
support and comfort techniques.
In this chapter pediatric dental settings in the U.S are listed. Each of these dental
settings is unique in what they provide for children and their families, but the main goal in
a pediatric dental setting is to make going to the dentist less stressful and more fun.
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West Coast- California
Weideman Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics
Our family-oriented practice is built on love for children and the desire to make them
comfortable with dentistry. We view each child as a unique individual who must be treated
as such to accomplish our goals of a positive dental experience and quality care. We hope
to establish a life-long relationship of trust and confidence with you and your child. Part of
our gentle approach includes creating a comfortable and fun environment for children.
7916 Pebble Beach Drive, Ste. 101
Citrus Heights, California 95610
(916) 962 – 0577
www.sacchildrensdentist.com
67
Our Approach
Our mission is to provide quality, comprehensive dental care to our patients in a loving
environment and to emphasize education and prevention of dental disease.
At Rocklin Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that comprehensive dental care is the best way
to ensure your child's oral health. For you and your child this means we will not only
diagnose any dental needs, but we will educate you on how to prevent cavities from
forming. Using age appropriate milestones and anticipatory guidance, our staff will educate
you about what to expect during each stage of dental development and how to maintain
your child's healthy smile. We will discuss your child's diet, oral habits and oral hygiene
practices at each check-up appointment.
2221 Sunset Blvd Suite 101
Rocklin, CA 95765
(916) 435-9100
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East Coast-Massachusetts, Pennsylvania & Maryland
Pediatric Dental Healthcare
16 Washington Street
Plainville, MA 02762
(508) 695-2064
www.pediatricdentalhealthcare.com
Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric Dentistry, P.C. is a pediatric dental group practice with office locations in
Concord and Marlboro, Massachusetts. We specialize in the care of infants, children,
adolescents, and patients with special needs.
Our goal is to provide comprehensive dental care in a supportive, compassionate, and
positive environment.
Our Mission
Our focus at Pediatric Dentistry is to provide a Dental Home where
we strive to support children in every aspect of their oral health.
We believe that good oral health is an important part of total health.
We focus on prevention, early detection and treatment of dental diseases
in a pleasant environment and work hard to establish the trust and confidence of your
children. Our goal, along with our staff, is to help all children feel good about visiting the
dentist and to establish healthy habits that promote a lifetime of healthy, beautiful
smiles.
CONCORD OFFICE
290 Baker Avenue, Suite N228
Concord, MA 01742
978.369.7771
MARLBORO OFFICE
219 Boston Post Road West
Marlboro, MA 01752
508.481.8161
www.pediatricdentistcm.com
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Chesapeake Pediatric Dental Group
Chesapeake Pediatric Dental Group was established in 2005 to help address the special
needs that children have when it comes to compassionate, quality children's dentistry. Not
only do we try to give positive dental experiences, but also try to provide children with a
loving and caring atmosphere where they are all treated as individuals.
Our practice was created to foster a very “non-threatening” environment for our patients,
and our staff has been trained to specialize their behavior to be in sync with your child’s
cognitive age. It is important to us to make sure that your child has good visits that they
can grow from, this is why it may be difficult to exactly say what treatment your child will
have on their first dental visit, as there is a large variation in ages and cognitive
development of children, and we customize our initial visits for each individual child
5009 Honeygo Center Drive, Suite 228
Perry Hall, MD 21128
410-248-3384
www.chesapeakepediatricdental.com
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

Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics is a team of motivated individuals dedicated
to providing the highest quality dental care to children, adolescents and the
mentally and physically challenged.
Together, it is the philosophy of our office to provide the highest possible degree
of professional pediatric dental and orthodontic care for your family. We are very
confident in our ability to make dentistry and orthodontics an enjoyable,
comfortable experience.
Pediatric Dental Care is a team of motivated individuals dedicated to providing the
highest quality dental care to children. We want your child to remember each
dental visit as a pleasant, positive learning experience.
70
428 Windmere Drive, Suite 200
State College, PA
(814) 238-7120
pediatricdentalcare.org
Midwest- Ohio
Sylvania Pediatric Dental Care, Inc.
Specialists in Dental Health Infants through young adults
Welcome to the office of Sylvania Pediatric Dental Care, a leading pediatric dental
practice in Sylvania, Ohio. Superior oral health is vital for a child’s development, and we’re
here to help every step of the way.
We are committed to making your child’s first dental visit a pleasant and comfortable one.
We understand the importance of establishing a good oral hygiene regimen early in a
child’s life, and we provide children with the necessary knowledge and treatment
to maintain a healthy smile.
5860 Alexis Road, Sylvania,
OH 43560
(419) 882-7187
www.sylvaniakidsdental.com
West- Utah
Our primary goal is to help your child learn how to keep their teeth healthy and beautiful
for life. Children require different approaches in dealing with their behavior and dental
development. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality of dental care in the most
gentle, efficient and enthusiastic manner possible. We strive to make each dental visit a
pleasant and rewarding experience for your child.
Our office is designed especially for children to help them feel comfortable and have a
pleasant experience while visiting the dentist. We have a large play room in the waiting
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area with movies, blocks, toys, and books. Colorful patient benches and televisions on the
ceilings make procedures and cleanings even more exciting! Our open bay area allows
modeling to occur between older siblings and helps to eliminate fear.
169 Gateway Drive
Suite 200
Providence, Utah 84332
435•787•2223
www.abcpediatricdentistry.com
South- Missouri
Children’s Dental Clinic
 Our office specializes in pediatric dentistry. Dr. Warriner and Dr. Sumner's other
areas of interest and focus within the specialty of pediatric dentistry include
patients with cleft lip and palate. They are also interested in monitoring and
treating those patients with developing malocclusions, skeletal growth issues, and
other dental abnormalities.
 At Children's Dental Clinic, our primary focus is to provide comprehensive dentistry
to infants, children, adolescents and persons with handicaps. We strive to prevent
oral disease through developing positive attitudes and habits. We believe the key to
dental success is establishing good oral habits at an early age, with an emphasis on
regular preventive dental care.
1555 Medical Park Circle
Tupelo, MS 38801
Tel: 662-844-3315
www.childrensdentalclinic.com
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Chapter 8: PRIVATE PRACTICE - CONSUTLING - PLAY THERAPY
Child Life Specialists working in the private practice setting is based on the needs of the
community in which they are serving. The use of play is an essential tool child life
specialists use to assess children whom they are working with. Play therapy services in
private practices are used for the same reason to assess the children who they are
servicing.
In this chapter the focus of play therapy private practice is addressed. Play therapy
practices in the US are listed. The main focus of play therapy practices is to help a child
work through their feelings, emotions and stress through the use of play.
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East Coast- New Jersey
Play therapy is a way to help a young child express their feelings and begin to solve the
problems. The play therapist is trained to read the meaning of the child’s play, and as
patterns or themes emerge, she shares her thoughts with parents, and a plan is developed
to work toward a healing process both at home and in the play therapy room.
PLAY THERAPY FOR CHILDREN
Ages 3-12 in a fully equipped play room. (Puppets, sand-trays, paint, clay, art, doll house,
dress-up, therapeutic games.)
Play is the child’s natural form of communication. During their play, children reveal
unconscious fears, worries, thoughts and wishes. The toys are the child’s words.
250 Main Street
Lebanon, NJ 08833
908-236-2763
childplaytherapy.net
West Coast- Hawaii
Play Therapy Center of Hawaii, LLC



The Play Therapy Center of Hawaii specializes in the treatment of the 3 to 8 year
old child who may be dealing with past trauma, loss or abuse or who may just be
having difficulty adjusting to the birth of a new sibling.
We believe that the crucible for the entire child's growth and healing is the
family. We therefore assess, treat and educate the whole family as well as the
child.
Through the use of play therapy, art therapy and sand play therapy our clinical
staff uses the most developmentally appropriate interventions to access the inner
world of the child.
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We seek to help the child master anxiety through play, help parents gain insight
into their child and assist the whole family by strengthening bonds and promoting a
more secure attachment
315 Uluniu Street; #207
Kailua, HI 96734
Email: carlasharp@hawaii.rr.com
(808) 261-0066
playtherapycenterofhawaii.com

West- Colorado
Boulder Learning Co-op, LLC
A social enterprise supporting the emotional health and well-being of children,
adolescents, parents and families.



Play Therapy can be used to express feelings when children are at a place
developmentally where they cannot verbalize emotion in a cognitive/spoken fashion
(12 and under; older if on the Autism spectrum).
Toys and miniature figures in my therapeutic playroom serve as a child's words;
their play serves as their language. This is especially effective with young children
who do not have the vocabulary or cognitive thought process to express their
fears, challenges, experiences and feelings.
I use art, vocal expression (music), story development as well as Jungian Sand
Play to expand on the play therapy model. Most children respond very well to a
developmental and experiential approach, since I can meet them 'where they are'
and proceed from there.
1480 Lee Hill Drive, #7
Boulder, CO 80304
303.956.9518
www.boulderlearningcoop.org
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South- Virginia, North Carolina, Florida & Kansas
Play Therapy Center
Psychotherapy for Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples and Families
Play Therapy
A trained play therapist uses the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or
resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development. The play
therapist assesses and analyzes the individual or family play, and through this promotes
awareness and identifies coping strengths and problem solving strategies. Play therapy
occurs through the use of several main approaches:
General play in the play therapy Play Room
Arts and crafts with a variety of mediums
Sand tray exercises with figures and symbolic objects
Drama and role play such as puppet play
Maria Roberts, LCSW, RPT-S
11862 Sunrise Valley Drive, suite 101
Reston, Virginia 20191
mroberts@playtherapycenter.com
703-606-4642
playtherapycenter.com
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Gill Center for Healing and Play
Child and adolescent therapy is provided utilizing a combination of traditional talk therapy,
cognitive-behavioral approaches, and expressive therapies. Several staff specialize in
working with very young children (as young as three years of age) and are trained to utilize
play and art therapies, as well as sand therapy.
Extended Play Based- Developmental Assessment (EPBDA)
 During play-based assessments, clinicians encourage children to externalize their
thoughts, perceptions, and feelings by providing them with a variety of ways to
symbolize and/or verbalize their experiences.

The initial goal of the EPBDA is to gain an understanding of children’s unique
functioning, identify problem areas, rule clinical symptoms in or out, understand
children’s perceptions of their important relationships, and subsequently develop
recommendations that meet the specific needs of children and their families

Extended Play-Based Developmental Assessments allow clinicians to comment on
children’s physical and emotional functioning; themes evident in play, language,
behavior, or activities; relational issues; symptomology observed or reported;
communication style; spontaneous verbal communications; and differential
developmental functioning based on age, gender and culture.
8626 Lee Highway
Suite 200-A
Fairfax, VA 22031
(202) 257-2783
gilcenter.com
Specializing in working with abused children and their families
Our areas of expertise include:
*Play therapy with abused and traumatized children;
* Systemic Treatment of Children who Molest
* Post-Traumatic Play
* Integrated Approaches to Abused Children
* Working with Adolescent Victims
* Working with Sexually Aggressive Children and their Families
77
8626 Lee Highway
Suite 200-A
Fairfax, VA 22031
(202) 257-2783
The Naples Child Therapy Center
Our mission is to provide parents a place where their children feel safe and can express
themselves openly through proven child therapy techniques.
Supervised Play Therapy
Play therapy is the process of learning about children's emotions by observing and
participating in their play. Play allows children a safe and psychological distance from their
problems and allows them to express their true thoughts and feelings in ways best suited
to their developmental level.
Play Therapy
 Enables children to express themselves.
 Establishes an environment that is free of many restraints.
 Gives children a chance to express themselves in their own language of play and
fantasy.
 Creates an atmosphere that is comfortable and familiar.
816 Anchor Rode Drive
Naples, FL 34103
239-417-3031
Email: info@carolgollychildtherapy.com
www.carolgollychildtherapy.com
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SteppingStones Counseling & Consulting of Charlotte is a private practice dedicated to
providing professional counseling and consultation services to children, adolescents, adults,
couples and families.
Child / Play Therapy
 Most children go through difficult times, such as divorce of their parents, trouble
making friends, or adjusting to changes at school or home. Some children need more
help than others to get through these times. Play therapy is the most appropriate
treatment for helping children work through difficult times and helping parents
gain a better understanding of what their child is going through.

Through play therapy, children learn to communicate with others, express feelings,
modify behavior, develop problem-solving skills, and learn a variety of ways of
relating to others. Play provides a safe psychological distance from their problems
and allows expression of thoughts and feelings appropriate to their development.
315 E. Worthington Avenue
Charlotte, NC 28203
Phone: 704.335.6100
www.steppingstonesnc.com
Playful Awareness-Freedom from emotional pain through play
We are an independent private practice providing play therapy and Dialectical Behavior
Therapy (DBT) services to children, teens, adults and families. Play therapy provides
opportunities for individuals to express and resolve emotional conflicts using art, music,
movement, journaling and physical activities. DBT is a specialized approach emphasizing
healthy functioning.
We treat a wide variety of issues including:
 childhood aggression
 sensory processing disorder
 impulse control
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


mood disorders/emotion dysregulation
attachment/trauma
divorce/remarriage
self-esteem
(785) 749-1075 or (913) 244-8786
1602 E 22nd St
Lawrence, KS 66046
sara@playfulawareness.com
www.playfulawareness.com
Canada- Ontario
A complete history of the child is attained followed by a clinical
assessment and consultation with the care giver. Based on this
information an appropriate treatment modality is chosen. For
instance, a directive or non-directive approach may be used,
depending on what the situation calls for. In all cases, the
treatment is play-based and child-centered, focusing on the
individual needs of the child.
2349 Fairview Street,
Burlington, ON, L7R 2E3
Phone: 905-580-7529
E-mail: playtherapy1@hotmail.com
www.playtherapyforchildren.com
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Midwest- Michigan
Gateway Counseling Center
Play Therapy Services for Children


At Gateway, play therapy takes place in a playroom, specially designed, decorated,
and furnished with the toys and equipment children need to use as tools for the
dramatic scenes they direct with the therapist.
Parents are important allies in the play therapy process and can do much to support
and enhance the work their child does in play therapy sessions. Therapists meet
regularly with parents to learn what is happening in the child's life, to share
important observations, and to give suggestions on how parents can support their
child's therapy.
1463 E. 12 Mile Rd.
Madison Heights, Michigan 48071
Phone (248) 414-3382
www.gatewaycounselingcenter.com
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Chapter 9: LEGAL SYSTEMS
Child Advocacy Centers & Court Preparation Programs
CLS strive to help children with stressful or traumatic experiences life events and
situations. Child life specialists working in the legal system can help children coping with
abuse and neglect by providing support and interventions to them. The traumatic event
could be the abuse or neglect the child has experienced or the stress from being removed
from their home. Child life specialists are advocates for children in the hospital so
advocating for children in the legal system would be no different. Helping children prepare
for court by using role playing and providing information on who, what, where and why they
are there will be helpful for the child in prepping them.
In this chapter child advocacy centers and court preparation programs are listed. Each of
these centers and programs are unique, but all strive to help children by providing them
ways to help them through the legal system.
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South- Alabama, Kansas, Texas & Kentucky
Play Therapy
In the playroom, the child gets to choose what to do. The therapist makes sure that the
child is safe. The child might play with toys like cars, puppets, and dolls. The child might
also want to use paper, markers, and crayons to draw or do other art. At times the
therapist might play with the child, and other times the therapist might watch the child
play. The therapist gains insight and understanding about the child’s worries and thoughts
by this observation
Child Protect- Children’s Advocacy Center
Purpose of a Child Advocate
 Assist you and your child through the interview stage

Answer any questions you may have regarding child interviews,
counseling, court hearings, etc.

Refer you and your child to appropriate organizations as
necessary for family support

Help prepare your child for court

Attend all possible court hearings with your child
What Your Child Advocate Can Do For You
 Conduct court preparations with your child at Child
Protect
 Conduct court preparations with your child at the
courthouse
 Attend court preparations the district attorney is
conducting
 Provide court preparation if the district attorney is not
available
 Explain the court system to the non-offending caregiver
 Explain the court system in child-friendly terms
 Bring entertainment for the child during court
 Sit with the child to provide advocacy during testimony
 Sit with the child to help prevent boredom and anxiety
during wait times at the courthouse.
 Attend each court session with the child, including
arraignment, preliminary hearing, grand jury, trial and
Sentencing
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935 South Perry Street
Montgomery, AL 36104
334-262-2252
www.childprotect.org
Life House-Child Advocacy Center
Kids in Court Program
Kids in Court is a program designed to prepare children for the court experience. Trained
advocates provide education and support to children and their families as they anticipate
going to court to witness.
Many times children do not know court terminology such as prosecutor, defense attorney,
sequestration oath.
Children are shown the courthouse and given a "hands on tour" of an actual court room.
They are able to see, touch and experience a new and strange environment.
Children learn their job in court is to Tell the Truth.
Helping Children Successfully Testify in Court
Many children testify in court and wish they did not have to do it. On the day they testify,
the child’s advocate, or "court room friend," is with them every step of the way.
 Some children actually benefit from having their day in court.
 Specially trained advocates are available to be with a child through every step of
the process.
 A kids in Court advocate will educate the child about court, thus reducing their fear
of the unknown.
 Prepared children are better able to handle the stress and strain of going to court.
 Children are able to explore and conquer their fears before they take the witness
stand.
 Children can be shown how to manage their nervous feelings and reduce their
anxiety while testifying.
 Kids in Court advocates can be there to help children and their families understand
the court system, which can seem confusing and frightening.
 A child preparing to testify needs all the support they can get. The Kids in Court
program has trained advocates to provide that support.
303 S. Kansas Ave.
Topeka, Kansas 66603
Phone: 785-232-5433
Lifehousechildadvocacycenter.com
84
Kids in Court
The KIC program works in collaboration with the Smith County Criminal District
Attorney's Office. This relationship benefits the child victims and the families as the CAC
is better able to keep families informed about how their case is progressing through the
criminal justice system. In the event that criminal charges are filed and will ultimately
result in a criminal hearing, the KIC coordinator works with the child victim and nonoffending caregivers to provide case updates, court education and court accompaniment.
Court Education/Preparation
All too often there are misconceptions associated with court for children and adults alike.
These misconceptions, if not addressed and corrected, can be fear inducing and anxiety
provoking. The CAC of Smith County offers court education as an opportunity to explain
what court is, the importance of telling the truth and the roles of the individuals present
in a typical court room.
The CAC of Smith County utilizes a court preparation curriculum in combination with the
Kids in Court Manual (developed by the CAC of Smith County) to prepare young witnesses
for the experience of providing testimony in a courtroom. The educational curriculum is
presented through various activities and learning objectives which are hands on and
interactive.
Initially, a child witness is introduced to the setup of a typical courtroom through a
wooden diorama depicting the various structures and personnel roles. At some point prior
to a criminal hearing a child may be offered a court room tour.
Court Accompaniment
If a criminal case proceeds to a criminal hearing, the KIC coordinator or family advocate
will accompany the child witness and family to court. Because this experience can be
difficult for a family emotionally and physically the KIC coordinator works in collaboration
with the Victims Assistance Coordinator at the Smith County Criminal District Attorney’s
Office to provide support throughout the duration of the trial.
2210 Frankston Hwy
Tyler, Texas 75701
Tel: 903-533-1880
Email: info@cacsmithcounty.org
www.cacsmithcounty.org
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Court Preparation and Advocacy
Advocates assist the child and his/her non-offending caregivers to ensure they are
adequately prepared for the legal and court processes following a disclosure of abuse.
Some centers provide this service directly to children and families and/or work closely
with prosecution based victim advocates to ensure the needs of child victims and families
are considered throughout the prosecution process.
649 Charity Court, Room #4
Frankfort, KY 40601
(502) 223-5117
www.kacac.org
West Coast- Washington
Kids Court


Kids’ Court is a five-hour experiential and activity-based program held at least four
times a year on Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in a courtroom at the King
County Courthouse in Seattle or the Norm Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent,
Washington.
Through a standardized curriculum, participants engage in discussions with a judge
and prosecutor. Utilizing role-plays, question and answer sessions and fun games,
the program increases children’s knowledge of courtroom personnel and procedures.
The afternoon session focuses on enhancing self-confidence and introduces stress
reduction techniques.
Kids’ Court is designed for children ages 4-12.
As the day progresses children in the group learn:



Why a witness is important and how to be confident in that role
How kids can participate successfully in a the legal system through enhancing
knowledge of courtroom procedures
How to reduce feelings of fear and anxiety though relaxation techniques that are
fun, easy and helpful
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
Practical methods to manage courtroom worries such as, “What if I start to cry?”
or “What if I don’t understand a question?”
To support and reinforce these sessions when Kids’ Court is over, each participant
receives a book entitled, “You Are Very Brave” and a relaxation tape.
Donna Belin, MEd, Executive Director
704 228th Avenue Northeast, PMB 323
Sammamish, WA 98074-7222
206-386-5437 (206-386-KIDS)
www.kingcounty.gov/prosecutor/kidscourt.aspx
Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA)

CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to watch over and advocate for abused
and neglected children, to make sure they don’t get lost in the overburdened legal
and social service system or languish in inappropriate group or foster
homes. Volunteers stay with each case until it is closed and the child is placed in a
safe, permanent home. For many abused children, their CASA volunteer will be the
one constant adult presence in their lives.

Judges appoint CASA volunteers to represent the best interests of children who
have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect. Each year, more than
700,000 children experience foster care in this country. Because there are not
enough CASA volunteers to represent all of the children in care, judges typically
assign CASA volunteers to their most difficult cases.
National CASA Association
100 West Harrison
North Tower, Suite 500
Seattle, WA 98119
Main Number: (800) 628-3233
www.casaforchildren.org
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Chapter 10: School Setting- Educational Consultant for Children with Chronic
Illness
www.holacrayola.zoomshare.com
Child Life Specialist’s role within the school setting is to reduce the impact of stressful or
traumatic life events and situations that affect the child’s development, health, and wellbeing within the school district. An educational consult for children with chronic illness
provides services to children who are struggling due to their chronic illness. CLS could
provide children with preparing them for returning back to school and providing them with
coping skills and interventions to help with loss.
In the following chapter one program where child life services could be provided to
children and their families is listed.
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East Coast- Massachusetts


Susan Haberman's Educational Consulting and Advocacy practice provides regular
and special education services to families of children who are struggling in school
and not receiving appropriate services.
Susan has experience working with a wide variety of issues that impact learning,
including Learning Disabilities, Autism Spectrum, ADHD, Mental Health and
Behavioral Disorders, Developmental Delays, and other health impairments.
SERVICES
Susan's practice provides a range of solution orientated Consultation and Advocacy
services. With each Service, Susan demystifies the educational process and provides
practical advice about how parents can ensure that their child's educational needs are
being met.








Advocacy
Educational Consulting
Records Review
Test Administration and Interpretation
Tutoring
Mediation
Observation & Placement
Referrals
60 Davidson Road
Framingham, MA 01701
Phone: 508-965-4175
Susan@slhaberman.com
www.slhaberman.com
89
When a child is diagnosed with a brain or spinal cord tumor, the whole family needs a
special kind of care and support. Making Headway Foundation was created in response to
this compelling need. Our humanistic programs support children and their families from
diagnosis through treatment and beyond.
To make treatment visits at Hassenfeld Children's Center for cancer and blood disorders
at New York University (NYU) Langone Medical center, more comfortable, engaging and
soothing for children and parents, Making Headway Foundation provides funding for the
following services:
A Child Life Specialist who uses play and recreation to encourage children to express
their thoughts and feelings and who ensures that the playroom remains an oasis of
comfort and fun.
 Patricia Weiner, MS, CCLS; Consultant/Special Education and IEP Specialist
 Sallie Sanborn, MS. CCLS; Psychotherapist
A Nurse Clinician who administers chemotherapy treatments for children with brain and
spinal cord tumors, as well as blood cancers.
A Clinical Research Manager who coordinates the clinical research trials for pediatric
neuro-oncology patients.
A Senior Psychologist who provides psychological services to patients, including neuropsychological testing, comprehensive assessments of abilities and needs, crisis
interventions and support groups.
A Professional Clown whose hilarious slapstick, fun and frivolity inspire laughter from both
children and adults-a vital part of the healing process-while the children are undergoing
treatments.
A Massage Therapist and a Yoga Instructor who provide relaxation and respite for both
children and parents.
115 King Street
Chappaqua, NY 10514-3460
Telephone: (914) 238-8384
www.makingheadway.org
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Chapter 11: Child Life in a Nonprofit Community Service/Support Agency and Non
Profit Providing Child Life Services
www.l-wconsulting.com
Child life’s role in a nonprofit community support setting is to provide support to children
and their families. The same skills and services CLS provide to children and families in the
hospital can be used in a nonprofit setting. Some of the skills could be: knowledge of child
development, ability to communicate and work as part of a team, skills in coping and stress
management, and assessing the family’s needs.
Child’s life’s role in a nonprofit providing child life services is to help family’s confronting
chronic and life threatening illness. CLS goal within this type of setting is to provide
communication within the families to help them cope with the illness. Providing information,
education, teaching, and interventions to families during this time is a large role for child
life in a nonprofit providing child life services.
In the following chapter one nonprofit community support setting and one nonprofit
providing child life services is listed. These two settings are unique but both provide child
life services to families within the community setting.
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South- Texas
Nonprofit Providing Child Life Services
Wonders and Worries-A Families Illness, A Child’s Journey
Helping Children when a parent has a chronic or life threatening illness
Our therapeutic programs help children affected by a parent's serious illness by:
 Giving an age-appropriate understanding of the illness, its treatments and side
effects
 Facilitating expressions of feelings related to the changes in the family
 Identifying individual coping skills to help ease feelings of sadness, anger, and fear
Services:
All Wonders & Worries services are provided by Child Life Specialists, professionals who
are specially trained to help children and their families understand and manage challenging
life events and stressful health care experiences. Currently, we offer:
 Individual Sessions - for children ages 2-18
 Group Sessions - helping children ages 5+ meet other children coping with similar
experiences
 Child / Parent Relationship Training Classes - teaching parents how to reconnect
with their children during the illness or following a loss
 Informal Support / Recreational Group Activities - allowing families to enjoy being
together in a fun, relaxing environment
 Bereavement Support Sessions - helping families prepare for the end-of-life, gain
the skills necessary to cope with loss, and create legacies
Services may be provided at one of our offices, at schools (with permission), or at another
location when necessary. All services are provided at no cost to families, thanks to the
generosity of our donors.
W&W works with families at ANY stage of the illness - from recent diagnosis to remission
to a reoccurrence. Bereavement support is available to any family who was a W&W client
prior to the loss.
9101 Burnet Rd, Suite 107
Austin, TX 78758
Phone: 512-329-5757
www.wondersandworries.org
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Midwest- Ohio
Child Life in a Nonprofit Community Support Agency
The Gathering Place- A Caring Community for Those Touched by Cancer
The mission of The Gathering Place is to support, educate and empower individuals and
families touched by cancer through programs and services provided free of charge.
Children and Family Programs
The Gathering Place has two Child Life specialists on staff to help children of all ages cope
with a cancer diagnosis in their family.
The Gathering Place programs and services are for those actively dealing with cancer in
their daily lives. This includes those in treatment, those who are coping with the physical
and/or emotional side effects from treatment, those who are actively supporting someone
with cancer, or someone who is grieving the recent loss of a loved one from cancer.
These Two Programs are run by CCLS Kathleen McCue
Family Consultation
Our children’s specialists, Kathleen McCue, MA, LSW, CCLS, Kathy
Maxwell, LISW-S and Erin Rafter, PhD are available to meet with parents or other family
members to discuss concerns about issues with children. Children’s specialists are also
available to provide short term counseling for children and teens.
KidShop
A twice-monthly workshop for children of all ages who have an adult family member with
cancer. This support program, utilizing art, play, and discussion, provides creative
opportunities for children and their parents to interact with families in similar situations.
Advance registration with Kathy Maxwell, LISW-S or Kathleen McCue, MA, LSW, CCLS.
Children and Family Programs
For information on programs and services available for children and families coping with a
cancer diagnosis, contact Kathleen McCue, Children's Program Director,
at mccue@touchedbycancer.org.
The Arnold & Sydell Miller Family Campus
23300 Commerce Park
Beachwood, OH 44122
(216) 595-9546
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Orange County Parent Child Center
Our work throughout Orange County brings family support and outreach programming into
homes and communities, meeting families where it is convenient and comfortable for them.
Our programs connect parents with practical strategies and skills that address the full
spectrum of family joys and challenges.
Andrea Herrington CCLS, Children’s Integrated Services Family Support & Outreach,
Playgroups
361 Vermont Route 110
Chelsea VT 05038
(802) 685-2264
www.orangecountypcc.org
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Chapter 12: Child Abuse Centers– Family Programs and Shelters
asbinder.wikispaces.com
Child life specialist’s role working in a shelter is to provide families and children with a
safe place where they feel they are safe from harm. CLS also can be a child’s advocate by
talking with the family and child to assess the child’s understanding of why they are at the
shelter and what a shelter is.
In the following chapter child abuse centers including ones with family programs and
shelters are listed within the U.S. Each center is unique in the services and programs they
provide, but all strive to help families and children have a safe place to go.
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South- Texas & South Carolina
Mission:
Austin Children’s Shelter protects and heals children, young adults and families in need.
Services
Our services and programs are tailored to the unique strengths and needs of every youth
and young adult in our care. Children, youth and young adults come to the Austin Children's
Shelter through Child Protective Services, the Juvenile Probation Office or Austin Travis
County Integral Care.
Emergency Shelter
Austin Children's Shelter offers a safe haven for children and youth from birth to 18
years old who have been removed from their homes due to abuse, abandonment or neglect.
We provide high quality care and critical services needed to begin the healing process,
including individual and group therapy, medical, vision and dental care, and educational
assistance. Generally, children in emergency shelter care are here for less than 90 days.
Teen Mother's Program
The Teen Mother's Program was launched in 2010 in a recently built cottage on our campus
designed for up to 22 moms with their babies and toddlers. Current trends indicate these
young families will live in our care for up to a year. Our goal is to teach these teen moms
positive parenting skills to break the cycle of abuse and neglect while supporting the
attainment of their educational and vocational goals.
Transitional Living Program
Youth and young adults who choose to remain in foster care or return to foster care learn
skills necessary to make the transition to independent living. Our staff help youth identify
resources available to them. Training can include learning how to open a checking account,
rent an apartment, interview for a job, shop economically for healthy food and
more. Youth in this program live in the long-term residential cottages and must be 16 – 21
years old and either enrolled in school or vocational training.
Respite Care
Respite care provides temporary, non-routine relief for parents and legal guardians of
children with emotional or developmental disabilities for up to 14 consecutive days and up
to a total of 40 days per calendar year. This service is available for children who are
eligible for services through Austin Travis County Integral Care.
www.austinchildrenshelter.org
Austin, Texas
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Children Shelter of the Upstate, Inc.
Mission
The Mission of the Children Shelter of the Upstate is to provide a safe, supportive and
nurturing environment for abused, abandoned and neglected children and teens.
The Children Shelter of the Upstate provides an immediate safe home for children who
have been abused, abandoned and neglected. Children arrive at the Shelter any hour of the
day or night during any week of the month. The Shelter provides comfortable clothing,
nourishing meals, medical attention, and counseling and encourages academic success.
P.O. Box 2663
Spartanburg, SC 29304
(864) 583-7688
www.childrenshelterupstate.org
Midwest- Missouri
Sunshine Children’s Center for Abused or Neglected Children
Emergency Shelter
Sunshine Children's Center provides up to 45 days of care to children who have been taken
into protective custody by the Dept. of Human Services because of allegations of abuse or
neglect.
Child Abuse Prevention and Respite
The Sunshine Shelter is in the process of implementing other programs to assist the
children in coping with the trauma they have experienced, as well as helping those who
care for these children.
These programs include Respite Care - temporary placement for children whose parents or
foster parents just need to "step back" temporarily from the pressures of child-rearing.
Another program is Life Skills - teaching the soon-to-be young adults the skills and
responsibilities that are necessary to living independently.
Medical and Psychological Services
Besides offering a temporary shelter, Sunshine Shelter also provides medical, dental, and
eye examinations, as well as psychological diagnostic evaluations. The Shelter has a
licensed social worker on staff who conducts counseling with the children.
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409 N. Union St
Natchez, MS 39120
601.445.2223
www.sunshineshelter.org
www.sunshineshelter.org
West- Colorado & Arizona
The Kempe Center Mission Statement
The Kempe Center will provide and improve direct clinical services, improve clinical service
delivery systems, and provide training, education and consultation programs to prevent and
treat child abuse and neglect in Colorado and throughout the nation.
The Kempe Center creates programs that treat abused children, trains future
professionals, and researches new methods to heal these innocent victims.
Our current programs include:
 Kempe Child Protection Team
 Kempe Child Trauma Program
 Kempe Fostering Healthy Futures Program
 Kempe Perpetration Prevention Program
 Kempe State and Regional Team for Crimes Against Children (START)
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Kempe Therapeutic Preschool
Kempe Training, Education and Consultation Program
Kempe Judicial Access to Services for Parent Infant Relationship Enhancement (JASPIRE)/Justice Initiative for Drug Endangered Families (JI-DEF)
The Gary Pavilion at Children's Hospital Colorado
Anschutz Medical Campus
13123 E 16th Ave., B390
Aurora, CO 80045
(303) 864-5300
www.kempe.org
Tennyson Center for Children at Colorado Christian Home has grown to become one of the
Rocky Mountain region's leading treatment centers and K-12 schools for emotionally and
crisis-affected children and youth, particularly those suffering from abuse and neglect.
We serve children ranging in age from 5-18. We provide experienced and caring
treatment, educational and advocacy services in an environment that is child-centered,
family-focused and community-based.
Programs and Services
Our Residential Treatment Program provides 24-hour care for children ages 5-14 with
significant emotional and behavioral concerns. We integrate therapy, education, health,
spiritual growth, and recreation opportunities to help children and families stabilize,
establish safety, resolve conflict, and develop success.
Our Day Treatment Program provides children, ages 5-18, a research-based K-12
educational curriculum in a highly structured therapeutic environment. By helping children
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learn new skills and strategies to manage their emotional health and well-being, while
continuing their academic pursuits, we help prepare them to successfully re-enter the
public school system.
Stepping Stones is a short term adolescent residential program for male and female youth
ages 11-18 that need a temporary place to reside due to family conflict, legal problems,
mental health concerns or other issues.
Our Community Based Family Services program addresses child protection, emotional and
behavioral challenges, domestic violence, parenting, child trauma, and specific mental
health concerns in the family’s own home, school and community.
Tennyson Center for Children’s Education Program offers a continuum of education
approaches to meet the behavioral and academic needs of students for children who are
having difficulty achieving success in the public school setting.
Home Environment Alternative to Residential Care (HEART) is an intensive in-home
program that serves the entire family and focuses on family preservation, reunification
and preventing out-of-home placements.
Outpatient Therapy services are available for individuals and families at our Denver
campus. These services can be used as an assessment tool, allowing our licensed clinicians
to help identify clients’ needs and facilitate service planning.
2950 Tennyson Street
Denver, CO 80212
Main 303.433.2541
Toll Free 877.224.8223
www.childabuse.org
Casa De Los Ninos
Our Mission
Casa de los Niños is dedicated to the prevention of child abuse and to the care of children
already abused.
Crisis Shelter
Arizona shelters are managed by non-profit organizations licensed by the state. Casa de
los Niños is licensed to accommodate 48 children. Our focus is the care of children
younger than 12. Our specialty is the stabilization of youngsters with medical problems. In
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addition to providing a safe, loving environment for all our young guests, Casa de los Niños
offers around-the-clock medical care.
Children are at Casa de los Niños because they are medically vulnerable and their parents
lack the resources to provide adequate care. Often-times our staff will help teach parents
how to deal with the healthcare challenges faced by the child.
Casa de los Niños cares for these youngsters while case managers decide if the child
should go back to the parents, to relatives or to a foster home.
1101 N 4th Ave
Tucson, AZ. 85705-7467
520-624-5600
West Coast- California
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Children’s Institute, Inc. has created one of the nation’s strongest models for
working with children who have been traumatized by violence.
Everything we do is aimed at healing children who have been hurt, protecting them
from getting hurt again, and preventing others from ever being hurt in the first
place.
We help families provide safe, nurturing homes. And we advance innovative
programs and policies that contribute to safe children, strong families and healthy
communities nationwide.
Programs and Services include clinical, early childhood, family support and child
enrichment. Listed area few of the services in each of these categories.
Clinical Services
 Child Abuse Treatment Services — Individual, family, and group counseling
services and special programs for sexually abused and sexually reactive children
and teens and their non-offending parents
 Child and Family Assessment Center — Comprehensive mental health and
developmental evaluations emphasizing children in the child protective services
system
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Early Childhood Services
 Early Care and Education — Half-day, full-year early education and child care
services in center-based care or in contracted licensed family childcare homes to
promote optimal child development
 Early Head Start — Comprehensive child development program that provides
individualized care and services to children birth to 3 years old and their families
Family Support
 Alcohol and Other Drugs — Treatment and support services for adolescent and
transitional age youth with substance abuse and mental health difficulties
 California Youth Authority Parenting program — A parenting and support program
for youths in California Youth Authority facilities
Child Enrichment
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Art program — Structured and walk-in classes in the visual arts for children age 4
and up
Computer Learning — Hands-on training for children of all ages through ageappropriate games, schoolwork and Web research
2121 West Temple Street
Los Angeles, California 90026
Phone: 213.260.7600
www.childrensinstitute.org
The Child Abuse Prevention Center
Mission
The Child Abuse Prevention Center directly serves at-risk children and families in crisis to
prevent and break the generational cycle of child abuse.
The Child Abuse Prevention Center is the county's leading not-for-profit organization
focused exclusively on the prevention of child abuse. Our early intervention programs have
a well-documented record of strengthening and improving parent-child relationships,
working to prevent child abuse before it occurs.
The Prevention Center currently offers a variety of programs that address the issues of
child abuse and family violence, and the underlying social, environmental, and medical
factors that can contribute to this devastating social issue.
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Programs Include:
Basic Needs
Bridges for Newborns
Child Abuse Services Team
Helping Kids Cope
In-Home Coach
In-Home Crisis Stabilization
In-Home Mental Health
Monitored and Supervised Visitation
Multidisciplinary Care Team
Supporting Parents and Reaching Kids
Teen Voices / Teen Choices
Welcome Baby
500 S. Main Street, Suite 1100
Orange, CA 92868
(714) 543-4333
www.brightfutures4kids.org
East Coast- New York
New Alternatives for Children
Mission
NAC’s mission is to provide the support and advocacy necessary to help children with
chronic medical conditions, their siblings and their families overcome obstacles that
deprive them of a loving, permanent home and the chance to thrive.
Programs & Services
Making sure each child is safe and has a permanent and loving home to call his or her own is
our focus and our first goal.
 Prevention,
 Foster Care & Adoption,
 Bridges to Health,
 Comprehensive Healthcare Center
 Educational Support & Advocacy
 Family Support Services
37 West 26th Street, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10010
(212) 696-1550
nackidscan.org
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Chapter 13: Wellness Centers
studenthealth.fiu.edu
Child Life Specialists role in working with families in a wellness center environment is
providing education, teaching, preparation and support for families dealing with cancer.
CLS can use their education and skills of child development to help children and teens
understand their parents or loved ones cancer diagnosis or treatment. Therapeutic coping
interventions and techniques may be used to help children and teens express their
emotions through art, music and play. Child Life Specialists can work alongside other
professionals in a wellness center setting to help provide education, coping and support
through the use of alternative therapies.
In the chapter one wellness center is listed. This center is unique to helping families cope
with cancer.
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East Coast- New Jersey
The Wellness Community of Central New Jersey
Our Mission
To ensure that all people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge, strengthened
by action, and sustained by community.
At The Wellness Community of Central New Jersey individuals affected by cancer are
given an opportunity to enhance their health and well-being through participation in
professionally-led programs of support, education and hope.
Kids Connect/Parents Connect
Meets once a month on Saturday mornings: 10 am – Noon.
This program, led by licensed professionals, is designed to help children ages 6 -13 cope
with a parent’s cancer diagnosis and to help parents develop the skills necessary to talk to
their children about their cancer. Children and parents meet separately and
together. Children participate in creative activities designed to help them express their
feelings and emotions.
Teens Connect
Monthly program for teens 14-17 who have a parent diagnosed with cancer.
3 Crossroads Drive
Bedminster, NJ 07921
908-658-5400
www.cancersupportcnj.org
www.cancersupportcnj.org/
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Chapter 14: Ronald McDonald House
The Child Life Specialist’s role in this setting is to help both patients and siblings
understand and cope with their disease and treatment as well as being a resource for
parents about these issues.
In the following chapter Ronald McDonald Houses in the U.S are listed. Each Ronald
McDonald House is unique in the services they provide, but each Child life specialist at the
house strives to help children and their families coping with disease.
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Midwest- Minnesota
Ronald McDonald House
Our Mission
Ronald McDonald House Charities, Upper Midwest creates, finds and supports programs
that provide a caring community for families with seriously ill children while increasing
children's access to health care services.
The main goal of the Ronald McDonald House is to create a home-away-from-home for
families with children living with life-threatening illnesses.
Services for our Families
The Ronald McDonald House School is a contract alternative school, licensed through the
Minneapolis Public Schools and staffed by the Ronald McDonald House. Fulltime instruction
is provided for patients and siblings in grades K-12, allowing children to maintain academic
performance while remaining together as a family.
The Cooks For Kids Program is a volunteer program in which organizations, groups and
individuals prepare a home-cooked meal for our families each night at 5:30, as well as
brunches on the weekends and Wednesday afternoon barbecues in the summer.
The Summer Activities Program offers families fun, engaging and educational activities
when school is out. Activities include bowling, swimming, canoeing, weekly trips to the
library, building model rockets, field trips to Valley Fair and a boat ride on the St. Croix
River.
Weekly Activity Nights provide families with fun and creative diversions such as arts and
crafts, the bouncy house, movies and BINGO. These activities offer an opportunity for
families to build a community with each other. In addition to these regular activities,
several others are offered. Special activities and parties are planned around each holiday,
including a summer Luau, a big spring egg hunt, a wonderful celebration of the Chinese New
Year, a frighteningly fun Halloween Party and a special winter celebration in December.
After School Activities offer a fun afternoon for the children at the House. A variety of
activities are offered including crafts, cooking yummy treats and Jammin’ with Jan, a
program made possible through a partnership with MacPhail Center for Music.
Parent's Night In is held three times during the year, offering parents an evening to go on
a "date.” A candlelight dinner is served at the House and childcare is provided for the
children. Parent’s Night In provides parents with much needed time together to
strengthen and nurture their commitment.
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House Warmers assist families in their adjustment to the House. These volunteers make
lunch for the children in our school, supervise recess, play with the children, help direct
the afternoon and evening activities and help clean rooms.
The Family Resource Room and Library contains eight computers that provide free
internet and e-mail access. A collection of medical resource materials and a comprehensive
library of bibliotherapy materials are also available.
The Child Life Specialist on staff helps both patients and siblings understand and cope
with their disease and treatment as well as being a resource for parents about these
issues.
Administrative Offices
818 Fulton Street SE
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55414
612.331.5752
www.rmhc-um.org
The Ronald McDonald House of Rochester, Minnesota
The House provides shelter and support to families facing difficult days and long nights.
Families who stay at the Ronald McDonald House share their stories and gain new insights
as they meet children and parents with similar concerns. The House is a place to share
hopes and dreams.
Child Life Specialist
A Mayo Clinic Child Life Specialist (CLS) has an office at the Ronald McDonald House and
schedules hours in our home. Together with social workers, Ronald McDonald House
volunteers and staff, the CLS offers opportunities for emotional therapy. Activities and
programs maximize existing resources and build collaborations with the community. The
Child Life Specialist is available to families in the late afternoon, evening and weekends.
850 2nd Street SW
Rochester, MN 55902
(507) 282-3955
rmhmn.org