One of the most scary times in any individual's life is being told that you are sick. It can be overwhelming and confusing for any person of any age, but especially for children. I need to have a surgery? I am sick? I have to stay at the hospital? My goal as a Child Life Specialist (CLS) will be to help children understand the answers to these questions and to reduce their hospital anxiety through play and pet therapy!MY STORY:Hi! My name is Rachel Barr. Through my personal life experiences, I know firsthand how a CLS can have a profound effect on a child. As a child and adolescent, I had the pleasure of working with two CLS's who helped transform the way I viewed hospital life. I would like to return the favor and offer hope and healing to children and families during some of life's most challenging moments. Through my life and educational experience, I have noticed that oftentimes, kids and their families just need someone to help advocate for them. The process of getting a new diagnosis is difficult for parents and siblings, too. I want to be a person that can help families articulate their thoughts and feelings to their child's doctors and medical team. CHILD LIFE | MENTAL HEALTH | LIFE ACCOMPLISHMENTS:From my personal experience to my educational and work experience, I have learned many invaluable skills necessary for being an exceptional CLS. I have:• Cared for 15+ diverse infants and children • Fully informed parents on their child’s care plan • Used sensory play/facial expressions to communicate • Expressed empathy and patience towards emotional kids• Maintained stamina in daycare/camp setting• Handled problems and stressful situations with ease• Organized information and objects in appropriate areas• Adult & Pediatric CPR & First Aid Certified ADDITIONAL SKILLS INCLUDE: Child Development, Behavior Analyzing, Mental Health Awareness, Physical Health Awareness, Play Therapy, Pet Therapy, Patient Advocacy, Counseling, Cultural Sensitivity Awareness & Respect, Communication, Emotional Intelligence, Child Psychology