John Hancock Child Life and Wellness Program

The program is dedicated to creating a comfortable, therapeutic and family-centered environment. Our goal is to optimize a patient’s growth and development, decrease anxiety and foster positive coping skills. Medical preparation and procedural support, offered by the John Hancock Child Life and Wellness Program, helps patients gain a sense of mastery over their health care experiences. We encourage play opportunities and peer socialization to help normalize the hospital setting.

Child Life Specialists are certified in the assessment and treatment of the developmental, emotional and psychosocial issues of children. As members of the health care team, we provide consultation and intervention services regarding child development and the impact of illness, injury and hospitalization on children and families.

Services

• Hospital pre-admission tours and education by appointment.
• Support to patients and families before, during and after medical procedures.
• Therapeutic play and recreational activities to monitor intellectual, motor, emotional and social development in a comforting, child-centered environment.
• Educational and supportive services for staff, patients, families and school systems, emphasizing emotional needs and comprehensive health care.

Inpatient Programs

MFA

Monthly interactive workshops with facilitators from the Museum of Fine Arts. Patients model their own projects on the greatest masters throughout history.

SEA Star

Offers children and their families an opportunity to experience the New England Aquarium after hours for a unique, crowd-free, educational, and fun-filled visit.

STEAM Team

Established by the Museum of Science, this program provides engaging hands-on engineering and science activities which build self-confidence and creativity in children.

Hero Circle, Martial Arts Program

Weekly demonstrations from Sensei Joe and his team focusing on empowering patients and promoting positive energy through deep breathing and martial arts exercises.

HOP Program

Also known as the Hole In The Wall Gang Camp Hospital Outreach Program, the HOP Program brings the spirit of camp—including opportunities for play, creativity and self-expression—to our inpatient units.

Ryan’s Case for Smiles

Sewing group which engages children in creating personalized pillowcases.

PUPP (Police Uniting with Pediatric Patients)

Police and security staff at Mass General partner with pediatric patients on the inpatient units to engage in fun, interactive activities.

Fairytale Fridays

Magical Miss Amy comes monthly dressed as favorite Disney princesses, as she enchants pediatric patients on the inpatient units.

Child Life Volunteers

Child Life volunteers support and provide play opportunities for our inpatient population. For additional information, please refer to the volunteer web page.

Baby Cuddling

Specially trained volunteers offer nurturing and comfort to our youngest population. For additional information, please refer to the volunteer web page.

Complimentary Therapies

Pet therapy, music therapy, art therapy, massage, acupuncture and clown therapy.

Patient Resources

View the full collection of patient resources from the John Hancock Child Life and Wellness Program at MGfC.

John Hancock Child Life and Wellness Program Internship

We are currently accepting applications for a 600 hour internship for the Fall 2023 semester.

The John Hancock Child Life and Wellness Program Internship offers interns the chance to work with children of all ages in a variety of inpatient programs.

Our Multidisciplinary Team