217 episodes

Parents share their journeys and experiences related to having a child with an illness or medical condition. These powerful, and sometimes emotional, stories offer connection in what can typically feel like an isolating world. Visit www.childlifepodcast.com or email info@childlifepodcast.com to share your story.

Child Life On Call: Parents of children with an illness or medical condition share their stories with a child life specialist Katie Taylor, Certified Child Life Specialist

    • Health & Fitness
    • 4.9 • 132 Ratings

Parents share their journeys and experiences related to having a child with an illness or medical condition. These powerful, and sometimes emotional, stories offer connection in what can typically feel like an isolating world. Visit www.childlifepodcast.com or email info@childlifepodcast.com to share your story.

    210: Connection, Healing, and Love: Insights from Patrice Karst, Author of The Invisible String

    210: Connection, Healing, and Love: Insights from Patrice Karst, Author of The Invisible String

    "Love is the most powerful force in the universe, and the invisible string is a testament to the connections that bind us all." - Patrice Karst
    In this special Child Life Month episode, Katie Taylor sits down with Patrice Karst, the beloved author of "The Invisible String" and several other impactful books. They explore Patrice's journey from personal challenges to becoming a source of comfort and connection for families worldwide. This conversation delves into the power of storytelling in addressing themes of separation, loss, and the enduring strength of love. Patrice shares her inspiration behind "The Invisible String" and its profound impact on both children and adults, emphasizing our universal connectedness and the healing power of love.
    "The messages of love and connection I write about are not just for children; they resonate with the inner child in all of us." - Patrice Karst
    Key Insights or Lessons Learned: The concept of "the invisible string" as a universal metaphor for love and connection that transcends physical presence and even loss. The importance of acknowledging and discussing feelings of loneliness and the power of finding one's inner best friend, as explored in "Ruby and Lonely." How creativity and storytelling can be therapeutic, providing solace and understanding in times of grief and separation. The role of child life specialists in utilizing literature like Patrice's to foster emotional safety and understanding among families facing medical challenges. "Every letter I receive is a reminder of the profound impact stories can have on healing and connection." - Patrice Karst
    Resources and Tips Shared in the Episode: "The Invisible String" by Patrice Karst: A must-read for anyone seeking to understand and teach about the bonds of love.  Other books by Patrice Karst Child Life On Call App: Explore this invaluable tool for additional support and resources for navigating pediatric healthcare challenges. Request a Demo. Whether you're a parent, healthcare professional, or simply interested in learning more about child life, this podcast is for you.
    Learn 6 Positions to Help Kids Feel Comfortable and Safe
    Here are some of our favorite affiliates that help promote positive coping for kids:
    10% off Coping Kits and other select merchandise at Present Over Perfect
    Meet the host: 
    Katie Taylor is the co-founder and CEO of Child Life On Call, a digital platform designed to provide parents, kids, and the care team with access to child life services tools and resources. She is a certified child life specialist with over 13 years of experience working in various pediatric healthcare settings. Katie is the author of the children's book, and has presented on the topics of child life and entrepreneurship, psychosocial care in the hospital, and supporting caregivers in the NICU setting both nationally and internationally. She is also the host of the Child Life On Call Podcast which features interviews with parents discussing their experiences throughout their child's medical journey. The podcast emphasizes the crucial role of child life services in enabling caregivers both at and beyond the bedside.
    Instagram.com/childlifeoncall
    Facebook.com/childlifeoncall
    linkedin.com/in/kfdonovan
     
     
     
     

    • 33 min
    209: Research on Parent Caregivers of Children with Medical Complexities - Elise's Story

    209: Research on Parent Caregivers of Children with Medical Complexities - Elise's Story

    Advocacy, Compassion, Innovation: Elise's Child Life Journey "Working with children with medical complexity and developmental differences isn't just a job; it's rooted in who I am." - Elise Cofer, CCLS Research Article: Fitting the Pieces Together  Lead Researcher: Elise Cofer
    In this captivating episode of Child Life On Call, Katie Taylor sits down with Elise, a Nashville-born child life specialist who brings her passion and dedication to the hematology oncology unit at Vanderbilt. Elise's journey into child life, driven by a background deeply embedded in caring for children with special needs, showcases her commitment to enhancing pediatric healthcare. Through her story, listeners will gain insights into the challenging yet rewarding world of a child life specialist. Elise discusses the evolution of her career, her groundbreaking research on caregiver support, and her vision for a more inclusive and personalized approach to pediatric healthcare.
    "Elise's insights remind us of the critical role child life specialists play in not just supporting children, but whole families through their healthcare journeys." - Katie Taylor, CCLS Key Insights and Lessons: The Holistic Approach: Elise's interdisciplinary background highlights the importance of integrating care for children with special needs, emphasizing a holistic approach to their well-being. Research as a Pathway for Change: Elise shares her research findings on caregiver experiences, revealing a profound need for targeted child life interventions that support not only the child but the entire family unit. Advocacy and Empowerment: Through her work and research, Elise emphasizes the power of advocacy by caregivers and the role of child life specialists in empowering families to navigate the healthcare system effectively. The Importance of Listening: One of the most critical skills in child life work, according to Elise, is the ability to listen—to truly hear the needs and wishes of children and their families, thereby tailoring support to each unique situation. Recommendations: For Families: Elise recommends resources that provide guidance on navigating the healthcare system for children with medical complexities, emphasizing the importance of community support and advocacy. For Child Life Specialists: Insights into integrating research findings into practice, enhancing the child life specialist's toolkit for supporting families dealing with medical complexities. 🌟 Connect and Share Your Story: Join our community on Instagram @ChildLifeOnCall to share your journey and find support from others navigating similar paths. 
    As we continue to explore the depths of pediatric healthcare through stories like Elise's, we are reminded of the resilience, courage, and love that drive individuals to make a significant impact. Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes from Child Life On Call.
    Whether you're a parent, healthcare professional, or simply interested in learning more about child life, this podcast is for you.
    Learn 6 Positions to Help Kids Feel Comfortable and Safe
    Here are some of our favorite affiliates that help promote positive coping for kids:
    10% off Coping Kits and other select merchandise at Present Over Perfect
    Meet the host: 
    Katie Taylor is the co-founder and CEO of Child Life On Call, a digital platform designed to provide parents, kids, and the care team with access to child life services tools and resources. She is a certified child life specialist with over 13 years of experience working in various pediatric healthcare settings. Katie is the author of the children's book, and has presented on the topics of child life and entrepreneurship, psychosocial care in the hospital, and supporting caregivers in the NICU setting both nationally and internationally. She is also the host of the Child Life On Call Podcast which features interviews with parents discussing their experiences throughout their child's medical journey. The podcast emphasizes t

    • 28 min
    208: Military Life, Pediatric Complex Care Abroad & Resiliency: Kat's Story

    208: Military Life, Pediatric Complex Care Abroad & Resiliency: Kat's Story

    In this profound episode, we join Katie Taylor as she delves into the inspiring journey of a military family navigating pediatric healthcare for their two medically complex children. Through the voice of the remarkable mother, Kat, we explore the unique challenges and triumphs of securing continuous, specialized care amidst the frequent relocations and complexities inherent to military life. Kat shares her experiences with advocacy, the importance of resilience, and the deep bonds forged through their family's journey, offering invaluable insights into the realities faced by military families dealing with medical complexities.
    "Every challenge we've faced has only amplified our strength as a family. Our journey is a testament to the power of love, persistence, and advocacy." - Kat
    Key Insights and Lessons:
    The critical role of advocacy in navigating pediatric healthcare, especially within the military system. Strategies for explaining medical treatments and changes to young children in a way that fosters understanding and cooperation. The importance of building a supportive healthcare team that listens and adapts to the unique needs of each family. Implementing coping mechanisms for children, like the "Brave Box," to make medical procedures more manageable and less intimidating. Recognizing and nurturing the individual strengths and personalities of each child amidst their medical challenges. Resources and Tips:
     
    The Sticky Notes Diary: Follow Kat's blog for more insights and support for families of medically complex children in the military. Visit The Sticky Notes Diary.  Child Life On Call Resources: Access a variety of resources tailored for parents, professionals, and healthcare providers to navigate pediatric healthcare experiences. Explore Resources Call to Action:
    Connect on Instagram: Join our vibrant community @ChildLifeOnCall for daily inspiration, stories, and support. Explore Our Amazon Storefront: Discover curated resources to support your family's healthcare journey. Shop Now Request a Child Life On Call Demo: Learn how our app can revolutionize pediatric healthcare experience in your organization. Request a Demo Let's continue to support each other and share our stories, fostering a community where no one feels alone in their journey. Tune in next week for another episode filled with hope, courage, and the collective wisdom of our Child Life On Call family.
     
    Whether you're a parent, healthcare professional, or simply interested in learning more about child life, this podcast is for you.
    Learn 6 Positions to Help Kids Feel Comfortable and Safe
    Here are some of our favorite affiliates that help promote positive coping for kids:
    10% off Coping Kits and other select merchandise at Present Over Perfect
    Meet the host: 
    Katie Taylor is the co-founder and CEO of Child Life On Call, a digital platform designed to provide parents, kids, and the care team with access to child life services tools and resources. She is a certified child life specialist with over 13 years of experience working in various pediatric healthcare settings. Katie is the author of the children's book, and has presented on the topics of child life and entrepreneurship, psychosocial care in the hospital, and supporting caregivers in the NICU setting both nationally and internationally. She is also the host of the Child Life On Call Podcast which features interviews with parents discussing their experiences throughout their child's medical journey. The podcast emphasizes the crucial role of child life services in enabling caregivers both at and beyond the bedside.
    Instagram.com/childlifeoncall
    Facebook.com/childlifeoncall
    linkedin.com/in/kfdonovan
     

    • 47 min
    Healing Without Surgery: Umbilical Hernia Solutions from a Physical Therapist

    Healing Without Surgery: Umbilical Hernia Solutions from a Physical Therapist

    What if we could prevent more kids from having to have invasive surgery? During this episode, we are joined by Katie Corrado, who invented a product that works as an alternative to surgery for babies and children. Tune in to hear how her first-hand experience of watching her child struggle with an umbilical hernia led her to an innovative solution that she now offers to other families facing the same challenge. You’ll also learn why Katie is an advocate for proactive rather than reactive medical solutions and how her passion for connecting with kids led her to work as a Physical Therapist rather than a Paediatrician. Join us today to hear all this and more. 
    Watch the episode on YouTube
    Key Highlights:
     
    The Penn State Dance-Off Fundraiser and all the connections it facilitates.
    Katie’s journey to becoming a Doctor of Physical Therapy with a Board Certification in Pediatrics.
    The story of an out-of-the-box solution that Katie developed to resolve her son’s umbilical hernia, now known and sold as The Navel Cradle. 
    Differentiating between reactive and proactive medical care and testing non-invasive solutions.
     
    Quotes:
     
    “The resiliency of children is just unmatched and it is amazing to be a part of that.” — Katie Corrado [0:11:50]
     
    “The idea that the best advice to me was to do nothing [about my son’s hernia] was awful. I felt so helpless.” — Katie Corrado [0:24:46]
     
    “Just because there isn’t a treatment for something yet doesn’t mean that there’s never going to be one.” — Katie Corrado [0:27:41]
     
    Resources Mentioned:
     
    Kate Corrado’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathlyn-corrado-pt-dpt-pcs-00305326/
    The Navel Cradle:  https://www.navelcradle.com/
    Whether you're a parent, healthcare professional, or simply interested in learning more about child life, this podcast is for you.
    Learn 6 Positions to Help Kids Feel Comfortable and Safe
    Here are some of our favorite affiliates that help promote positive coping for kids:
    10% off Coping Kits and other select merchandise at Present Over Perfect
    Meet the host: 
    Katie Taylor is the co-founder and CEO of Child Life On Call, a digital platform designed to provide parents, kids, and the care team with access to child life services tools and resources. She is a certified child life specialist with over 13 years of experience working in various pediatric healthcare settings. Katie is the author of the children's book, and has presented on the topics of child life and entrepreneurship, psychosocial care in the hospital, and supporting caregivers in the NICU setting both nationally and internationally. She is also the host of the Child Life On Call Podcast which features interviews with parents discussing their experiences throughout their child's medical journey. The podcast emphasizes the crucial role of child life services in enabling caregivers both at and beyond the bedside.
    Instagram.com/childlifeoncall
    Facebook.com/childlifeoncall
    linkedin.com/in/kfdonovan
     

    • 33 min
    206: Founder's Vision: Katie's Journey, Child Life Tech, Future Insights

    206: Founder's Vision: Katie's Journey, Child Life Tech, Future Insights

    In this special episode of Child Life On Call, we flip the script as Emily Martinec interviews our very own founder, Katie Taylor. Dive into Katie's journey from child life specialist to tech entrepreneur, exploring the roots of Child Life On Call, the challenges and triumphs of building a company, and how her upbringing shaped her mission to support families and healthcare professionals alike.
    "Child Life On Call is not a technology replacement for child life specialists... It's a tool to enhance and expand what Child Life Services is." — Katie Taylor
    Episode Highlights:
    Katie's personal story and the pivotal moments that led to her career as a child life specialist and entrepreneur. The evolution of Child Life On Call, including its challenges, successes, and the impact it aims to have on healthcare experiences for families. Insights into the future of the child life profession and how technology can play a role in enhancing family-centered care. Resources Mentioned:
    Child Life On Call app and website: A hub for resources, support, and community for families navigating healthcare experiences. ACLP (Association of Child Life Professionals): Mentioned in the context of the child life profession's growth and challenges. Katie emphasizes the importance of support, both within families and the healthcare community, to navigate the complexities of medical experiences. She highlights the role of Child Life On Call in empowering families and professionals with resources and support.
    Explore Child Life On Call's resources, join the Child Life Circle for professional support, and share their stories to strengthen the community. Visit Child Life On Call to learn more and get involved.
    This episode is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and community in transforming healthcare experiences for children and families.
    Whether you're a parent, healthcare professional, or simply interested in learning more about child life, this podcast is for you.
    Learn 6 Positions to Help Kids Feel Comfortable and Safe
    Here are some of our favorite affiliates that help promote positive coping for kids:
    10% off Coping Kits and other select merchandise at Present Over Perfect
    Meet the host: 
    Katie Taylor is the co-founder and CEO of Child Life On Call, a digital platform designed to provide parents, kids, and the care team with access to child life services tools and resources. She is a certified child life specialist with over 13 years of experience working in various pediatric healthcare settings. Katie is the author of the children's book, and has presented on the topics of child life and entrepreneurship, psychosocial care in the hospital, and supporting caregivers in the NICU setting both nationally and internationally. She is also the host of the Child Life On Call Podcast which features interviews with parents discussing their experiences throughout their child's medical journey. The podcast emphasizes the crucial role of child life services in enabling caregivers both at and beyond the bedside.
    Instagram.com/childlifeoncall
    Facebook.com/childlifeoncall
    linkedin.com/in/kfdonovan
     



     

    • 40 min
    205: How to Support Kids who are Grieving, Bittersweet Relationships & Personal Loss

    205: How to Support Kids who are Grieving, Bittersweet Relationships & Personal Loss

    In this episode, we're honored to have Jessica Correnti, a certified child life specialist and a bereaved mother, share her profound insights on grief. Jessica's dual perspective offers a rich understanding of the multifaceted nature of grief beyond the loss of a loved one. She discusses her personal journey, the importance of recognizing and naming grief in children, and how this awareness can empower kids to navigate their emotions.
    Key Highlights:
    Jessica's background as a child life specialist and how her personal loss has shaped her professional and personal life.
    The concept of "grief bombs" and the physical manifestations of grief.
    How grief evolves with children as they grow, and the importance of reprocessing their emotions at different stages of development.
    The significance of creating space for children to express and process grief through activities and conversations.
    Jessica's contributions to the field through her books and private practice, aim to enhance grief literacy among children and adults.
    Take a look at Katie’s favorite books to help kids grow, thrive and learn!
    Resources Mentioned:
    Jessica Correnti's Instagram: @KidsGriefSupport
    Download 38 Activities to Help Grieving Kids Here!
    Website: kidsgriefsupport.com
    ABCs of Grief series by Jessica Correnti.
    For anyone looking to deepen their understanding of child grief support and the power of connection through shared experiences, this episode is a must-listen. Join us in exploring the complexities of grief with empathy, knowledge, and hope.
    Other recommended episodes on this topic:
    Episode 197 | James’ Story - 5 Years with a Remarkable Son (tw: death) 
    Episode 173 | Dr. Korie Leigh – What Does Grief Feel Like?
    Episode 152 | Kelly’s Story - A daughter with epilepsy (tw: death) 
    And more here.

    _____
    About Katie Taylor, CCLS and Child Life On Call:
    Katie Taylor is the co-founder and CEO of Child Life On Call, a digital platform revolutionizing pediatric healthcare by putting parents at the center of the medical journey. With over 13 years of experience as a certified child life specialist, Katie has made significant contributions to the field of child life and the families she’s served with over a decade of working at the bedside. She is an accomplished author, engaging child life and entrepreneurship speaker, and the Child Life On Call Podcast host. Katie's work emphasizes the vital role of child life services in supporting caregivers and enhancing children's medical journeys.
    Learn 6 Positions to Help Kids Feel Comfortable and Safe During Procedures
    Instagram | LinkedIn | Amazon 
     

    • 35 min

Customer Reviews

4.9 out of 5
132 Ratings

132 Ratings

AmyGrabein ,

One of my fave podcasts

This podcast is a winner, I love everything about it. Katie is an incredible host and the guests have amazing and important stories/insights to share. Highly recommend.

Candice Lave ,

INSPIRED

I have been a Child Life Specialist for over seven years. I’ve been in the same hospital in the same unit, and it is easy to fall into a pattern of mundane routine. Katie’s podcast reminds me, again and again, of the endless WHY I chose child life as a career. The stories, the perspectives, the lessons we all can learn! Every episode leaves me inspired to try just a little harder, work just a little smarter, and, of course, make the world a little kinder!

Catia H Holm ,

Must listen - so valuable!

Katie being such amazing perspective and stories to the podcast. This podcast is such a valuable resource for all parents who want to feel supported and informed. Parenting through challenges is hard, but we don’t have to do it alone.

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