Child Life Specialists are highly trained professionals who support children and families with the goal of reducing fear, stress, and anxiety following traumatic experiences. Through compassionate, developmentally appropriate care, they help children better understand and cope with unfamiliar or overwhelming situations.
Our Child Life Team
We have 3 Certified Child Life Specialists on staff that are here to support children and teens leading up to the Forensic Interview and throughout the Pediatric Forensic Medical Exam.
At the Gingerbread House Child Advocacy Center, our Certified Child Life Specialists play a critical role in supporting children who are preparing for a forensic interview or forensic medical exam. Using age-appropriate techniques – such as education, therapeutic play, and step-by-step explanations -they help children feel more comfortable with the process.
Child Life “Tools”
Child Life Specialists use toys such as fidgets, Play-Doh and coloring books to get to know the child and put them in a comfortable mind set.
Child Life Book
This picture book provides the child with a visual of the room they will be talking in as well as the interviewer they will be talking with. By showing them this book, it erases some of the anxiety of the unknown.
Feelings Board & Bubble Tube
Bubble machines provide soothing noises and colors for children to watch as well as the feelings “dart boards” allow them to express themselves in a safe and productive way.
By reducing anxiety and building trust, they create an environment where children feel safe, supported, and empowered, allowing for more accurate and complete disclosures.
