Happy Holidays ... when the Hospital is “Home”

The holidays may be the hardest time of year to be hospitalized, especially for children who long to be playing, eating goodies and enjoying a school break.

Hospitalization doesn’t have to mean isolation during this festive time. Texas Children’s Hospital specialists say there are many ways to share the holiday season with a sick child and ensure a hospital stay doesn’t bring a humbug mood to the holidays.

“When a child is in the hospital, it’s important to maintain as many family traditions as possible and to include the child in the festivities,” said Sarah Maytum, child-life specialist.

For example, families who exchange gifts during the holidays can open presents at the hospital. If a child’s diet is restricted, parents can check with the child’s nurse or dietitian for ways to modify favorite family dishes for the child to enjoy.

“It’s also important to encourage siblings, other family members and friends to visit the child as often as possible,” Maytum said. “Parents could even have a decorating party and place festive, hospital-approved decorations in the child’s room.

“Frequent visits and fun activities will help the child get into the seasonal spirit,” Maytum continued. “Children often feel left out if they are sick at this time of year. It’s important to acknowledge that it’s difficult for them and offer new ideas to make the holidays special.”

If out-of-town family members are unable to visit, ask them to send greetings on a video to share with a child. The video will be a nice keepsake and remind the child that he or she is in everyone’s thoughts. In addition, visitors from church and favorite holiday videos and music can provide great comfort.

“While having a child in the hospital may not seem like the best time to establish new traditions, it’s possible with a little creativity,” Maytum said. “Family projects such as making a scrapbook or creating tree ornaments are fun and require few materials.”

In addition, Maytum suggests parents give the child a disposable camera to keep in the hospital room to capture holiday events and special visitors.

“The holidays bring many wonderful visitors to the hospital, and your child may want to preserve those moments,” Maytum said. “Ask your child’s nurse about special planned activities and inquire about whether siblings can participate.”

Parents also may consider celebrating again when the child comes home from the hospital.

“Gathering family and friends around a nice dinner or surprising the child with a special gift are wonderful ways to welcome him or her home,” Maytum said.

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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