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Offering Support for Well Siblings
The professionally trained and licensed staff of Charna’s Kids Club works in conjunction with the hospital’s Child Life Development Center, creating and coordinating recreational activities for patients’ siblings in order to help them better understand their surroundings, express their feelings, develop coping their skills, meet peers in similar circumstances and to reduce stress associated with the hospitalization of a family member. Charna’s Kids Club offers these activities in fun, nurturing, warm spaces which have been specifically designed to minimize the children’s anxieties and to encourage strong connections between staff and family members. The goal is to make the well sibling feel as safe, loved, and valued as the child who is ill. This cost free program is available to all families and is designed especially for school-age children between the ages 5 and 13 whose siblings are patients at the Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital. Lead by two clinical social workers, children may participate in many multidisciplinary activities such as arts and crafts, music, drama, special events, and group games. They will also be given assistance with their homework assignments. Snacks are provided. In addition, the program social workers are available to parents, providing support, guidance and consultations regarding parenting skills in a time of crisis. When the well sibling needs additional services, the social workers will coordinate with the case managers on staff at the hospital. Throughout the year, Charna’s Kids Club holds special events and celebrations. Families who are currently participating in the programs as well as those who were previously involved are welcome to attend. Hours
More Info
For more information regarding Charna's Kids Club, please contact: Alice Bergmann, LMSW |
