One of the reasons we feel so fortunate to live in Massachusetts is due to the amazing medical resources located in Boston. It’s no secret that doctors appointments and hospitals can be scary for children. and parents, too.
I remember our first trip to the hospital when The Boy was just a few months old. I was scared. It was a big, cold building. You worry that there may be something seriously wrong with your child. You trust that the doctor will find whatever it is and be able to fix it right away. Thankfully, there was nothing wrong with my child. But that isn’t the case for so many families around the country.
That’s part of the reason I want to talk with you about a great hospital located right in Boston that focuses on children. Floating Hospital for Children at Tufts Medical Center is committed to creating a child-friendly environment to help kids feel strong when they might be scared. Because they’ve been treating the youngest patients for so long, they know a thing or two about what appeals to children.
One way they’ve focused their attention to making kids feel strong is by offering entertainment that appeals to children. Here are The Toughlings.
Cute, right? Their purpose is to remind the patients that they are big and strong. You’ll see them on posters in elevators and on stickers provided during clinic visits, too.
Another amazing way they’re working to make their patients feel big and strong is through the use of pet therapy dogs. Pet therapy dogs provide a sense of comfort and can help to reduce stress.
Since 1948, Floating Hospital has provided Child Life Services. Floating Hospital pioneered the concept of integrating play into the daily routine, and it is an important part of the care Child Life provides. This help the offer isn’t limited to the patient – it extends to family members as well.
The courage and determination of their patients is the inspiration behind this wonderful video. Please take a moment to watch it.
To learn more about Floating Hospital for Children, visit them on Facebook.
