Ribbon-Cutting Unveils a Vision for Adolescent and Teen Space

Thanks to a generous gift from the Garth Brooks Teammates for Kids Foundation, the Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Department recently unveiled a newly renovated area within the Child Life Zone that is dedicated to adolescent and teen programming. In addition to new cabinetry, furniture, and colorful wall murals, the space features cushioned “pods” where patients can relax and unwind, play video games, and take instant photos courtesy of a built-in camera and printer system. A comfortable seating banquette and specialized audio-visual system provide opportunities for individuals or groups of patients to watch movies on a large screen that drops down from the ceiling. This teen-focused environment has generated great excitement among hospital leaders, frontline staff, and of course the adolescent and teen patients and families who visit the Zone seven days a week. Kicking off a host of celebratory events, the child life team gathered in the space in May for a hands-on exploration of the innovative technology and other therapeutic play resources to be used for patient programming. On June 5, hospital leaders, adolescent and teen patients, donors, and other stakeholders in the Mount Sinai Child Life Zone community gathered for a ceremonial ribbon cutting to commemorate the official opening of the space. Dr. Lisa Satlin, Chair of Pediatrics, spoke for everyone in attendance when she enumerated the many ways that this incredible renovation will enhance the well-being and experience of our adolescent patient population. We are excited to continue providing the best programming for our adolescents and teens and their families.