You're the Best Resource

I am a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) with a Bachelor’s degree in Child Development, Master’s degree in Biology (Medical Sciences), and Master’s level education on child life coursework. My educational background and experiences have helped me understand what children and families need to know most about upcoming and stressful healthcare procedures in a way that reduces anxiety through developmentally appropriate explanations and coping support. 

I have found that I am getting more questions from people in the community who want my take on something their child or student is dealing with. Firstly, I recommend seeing if there is a child life professional available to provide the services your child needs in whatever setting you need support. Secondly, I always tell caregivers that you are your child’s MVP, #1, and best advocate. I strive as a child life specialist to partner with the caregiver on providing support that best fits your family’s needs. Because you know yourselves best and I work to make sure everyone on the team has that information to best support your family as a whole.

If our services are not available, this is where I hope this page’s intention to give you additional direction that can help. These are resources I have used or recommended to caregivers in my clinical practice or send to my own friends and family. While it will be impossible in this avenue to provide your family the individualized and holistic support you deserve, I hope it leads you somewhere helpful! I envision this section of my publication to expand as I gain a better sense of the challenges families face today.

What's to Come

  • Mainly a vetted resource hub (i.e. books, podcasts, videos) related to healthcare literacy, socioemotional learning, and the like to help support your child during stressful situations
  • Posts regarding relevant topics that relate to healthcare advocacy for your child
  • Ways to help you and your child develop and implement coping skills together for facing both expected and unexpected developmental challenges (like anticipating vaccines at the doctor's office, preparing for big transitions, promoting emotional safety for new experiences)
Family Resources
Resource hub for caregivers ranging from grief and bereavement, socioemotional learning, trauma, and preparation for medical experiences.
Shedding Light on Child LifeAnisha Reza

Shedding Light on Child Life is an independent publication launched in November 2024 by Anisha S. Reza, MS, CCLS. All posts and resources are curated from this author's professional opinion and expertise. Any questions, comments, or requests can be directed via email to childlifewithanisha@gmail.com.