Activity Sheets to Educate and Entertain
As Child Life Specialists we know that concrete, visual tools are what work best to educate kids and their families. I have had countless experiences when a parent has told me, “thank you for showing and explaining this in simple terms… it’s so much easier to understand without medical jargon.” Yup, I agree! The Parts of My Body Activity Sheet from SmileMakers is a two-side sheet that gives simple explanations about the human body. This resource is useful for toddlers on up to adolescents. What I like best about it is that the child can take the lead by getting to choose which sticker to place on the body first, or you can gently guide the conversation yourself and ask questions to gather your assessment. You may find surprising misconceptions that the child has and be able to redirect them to a more accurate understanding. This resource is useful for toddlers on up to adolescents. What I like best about it is that the child can take the lead by getting to choose which sticker to place on the body first, or you can gently guide the conversation yourself and ask questions to gather your assessment. You may find surprising misconceptions that the child has and be able to redirect them to a more accurate understanding.
I’ve used this tool to educate about the location and function of several vital organs and
describe how they’re connected to an illness. From appendicitis to esophageal reflux to diabetes and asthma, this worksheet makes it easy to help kiddos digest information.
The back of the activity sheet (yes… there’s more!) is a great segue to move away from education when you begin to assess that the educational part of your intervention has lost its mojo. While continuing to focus on the body, the “game” part of this activity sheet can serve as a therapeutic way to engage your patient. Whether it’s a school age kiddo who wants to play the word scramble, or a toddler who wants to color the entire body, this is useful for a wide range of ages.
Send this activity sheet home for siblings or use it with your patients - the information is useful, and STICKERS are always a hit. Comment below and tell us what diagnosis education you facilitated using this Activity Sheet!
By Katie Taylor, Certified Child Life Specialist
