Let’s get real. The hospital has never really been a place that people want to go, and now in the midst of a global pandemic… well, let’s just say it may be the last place on EARTH that people want to be. That’s why decorating for holidays and other fun events is more important now than ever. Instead of decorating your hospital playroom this summer, since yours is probably closed like mine, consider decorating your hallways, entrances to units, hospital rooms, and nurses’ stations. Maybe even get in there and decorate that dictation room for your favorite physician group.

Thankfully, SmileMakers has got us covered for 4th of July. From star streamers, to the ever-necessary stress balls, cute bendable characters that are perfect for grab bags, and even PATRIOT SLIME. I know. I felt the same level of excitement.

Through social media, we know that patients and families will be able to see their friends and family getting together for barbecues and fireworks…as they sit left out, in the hospital, full of worry and concern. Not to mention the added stress that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused our families due to limited visitation and high possibilities of the spread of the virus. We can expect that emotions will be high while they have to be in the hospital.

But, as Child Life Specialists, we get the unique opportunity to take these difficult days and make them a bit brighter. So, while streamers and decorations may not mean much for some, we and SmileMakers know that holiday fun, and the effort staff takes to help families enjoy the celebration, will mean the world to our patients.

By Katie Taylor, Certified Child Life Specialist