How Camp Supports Healing, Play, and Belonging for Medically Complex Kids

When your child's life is shaped by medical complexity, childhood can quickly become defined by hospital stays, procedures, and limitations. In today's episode, we explore how medically supported camps transform that narrative—creating space for joy, belonging, and healing for children, families, and even healthcare providers themselves.

Katie Taylor is joined by Dr. Laura Blaisdell, Chief Medical Officer of SeriousFun Children's Network, and Jamie Gentille, Child Life Specialist Leader and former camper, to share the life-changing impact of camp for children with serious illnesses. From zip-lining with oxygen tubing to late-night cabin chats that build confidence and identity, this conversation highlights how thoughtfully designed camp experiences allow kids to be kids—without compromising medical safety.

This episode explores the power of positive childhood experiences, how camps seamlessly integrate complex medical care behind the scenes, the role of child life specialists and medical volunteers in creating safe spaces for play, and why camp is just as healing for providers as it is for children. You'll also hear Jamie's personal journey from camper to child life specialist and why camp will always feel like home.

Explore Child Life On Call's directory of medical and disability-friendly summer camps for kids! This resource helps families find inclusive summer camp options that support children with medical needs and disabilities, making it easier to plan fun, safe, and engaging summer experiences.

Today's Episode is sponsored by Moog Medical. Moog Medical is a trusted leader in infusion and enteral feeding technology, designing reliable, easy-to-use pumps that support safe, precise care for patients with complex medical needs—at home and in healthcare settings.

Resources from today's episode:

Medical & Camp Support:

• SeriousFun Children's Network
  
  

• Hole in the Wall Gang Camp
  
  

• Painted Turtle Camp
  
  

• Medical volunteer opportunities through SeriousFun
  

 Connect & Support from Child Life On Call 

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Keywords:
Medically complex children, Pediatric medical camps, SeriousFun Children's Network, Child life specialist, Positive childhood experiences, Pediatric chronic illness support, Medical trauma healing, Camp for children with illness, Family-centered care, Pediatric resilience, Provider burnout prevention, Therapeutic play, Sibling support, Pediatric healthcare community

Medical information provided is not a substitute for professional advice—please consult your care team