• Assists in Development of Cuddler Program with the infant toddler population, trains volunteers and develops curriculum. • Prepares patients for medical procedures.• Facilitates developmentally appropriate play, normalization, and therapeutic activities for hospitalized children.• Provides resources for patients and families. Promotes family center care within hospital setting. • Offers coping techniques to patients using breath work, guided imagery and aromatherapy as a means of pain control and relaxation.• Works with all ages and developmental levels and chronic illnesses such as asthma, Cystic Fibrosis, Infectious Disease and Respiratory Illnesses. • Educates parent and patients of children that received a new diagnosis of asthma or diabetes.• Assists in teaching parents and siblings to prepare them for a new baby. Focused on promoting healthy sibling role and mastering family preparedness.

Assessed patients' development and coping strategies, monitoring and adapting techniques to meet changing needs. Planned and implemented group, therapeutic, recreational and bedside activities to provide ongoing support for optimal development, pain management and peer socialization. Employed knowledge of developmentally appropriate communication to prepare patients and families for numerous medical procedures; partnered with healthcare team to assess family / patient needs and ensure appropriate psychosocial care. Advocated for children's and families' needs. Observed and participated in bereavement support.• Successfully completed 560-hour internship under supervision of Certified Child Life Specialist.• Achieved Child Life competencies and demonstrated ability to perform independently during 7-week orthopedic / surgery and 6-week emergency department assignments.• Planned and conducted weekly playroom activities targeting specific learning outcomes, including self-expression, familiarization, feelings identification and mastery.

• Continuously assessed children with cerebral palsy, ADHD, and autism; set goals, introduced a routine, and utilized choices chart using visual cues.• Practiced consistent positive discipline within a challenging environment as well as empowered students with the skills and tools to interact with others.

• Coordinated with volunteers to facilitate art activities in the pediatric playroom at Medical Center of Central Georgia. • Supported families of children in the hospital at the Ronald McDonald House by creating a warm, stable environment.

• Provided distraction, opportunities for play, and coping techniques to children within the Hope for Kids Outpatient Center at the Medical Center Central Georgia.• Informed families of resources like Joshua’s Wish and Ronald McDonald House.