Child Life Specialists: An Inside Look

From vibrant painting projects to the soothing sounds of musical instruments, Child Life Specialists bring immense value to the hospital experience. These dedicated programs and specialists at our member hospitals provide comfort, joy, and a sense of normalcy for children receiving care. Through activities like art therapy, music therapy, pet therapy, and engaging in play activities, they create an environment where children can simply be children.  

Beyond the fun, Child Life Specialists are important in helping children and their families navigate difficult times, whether it’s understanding a new diagnosis, preparing for a procedure, or coping with the loss of a loved one. They offer age-appropriate education, develop pain management strategies, and create spaces where children can express their feelings and have unique experiences.  

Child Life Specialists are critical to the daily work of children’s hospitals. Recognizing their impact, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals annually honors one Child Life Specialist from our network.  

The 2025 Child Life Specialist of the Year award was presented to Mary Beth Nichols at the Melodies Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at the April Children’s Hospitals Week event.  

“The Child Life Specialist of the Year award honors the extraordinary individuals who bring comfort and joy to children during some of their most challenging moments,” shared Aimee J. Daily, Ph.D., President & CEO of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.  

“I am so touched. This is like a dream. I am in awe that people see my passion for being a child life specialist. I love what I do, and I’m honored to do it!” said Nichols.  

Donations to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals support vital Child Life programs across member hospitals in the U.S. and Canada, helping to ensure every child has the best experience.