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March is Child Life Month, a time to highlight the incredible work of child life professionals who bring comfort, joy and understanding to children and families in challenging situations. These dedicated specialists help young patients cope by offering support that makes a lasting impact.

This month, we’re celebrating Chase Hatley, child life program manager at ÂÜÀòÉç Jacksonville, for his unwavering dedication to the children and families he serves. Join us in recognizing his invaluable contributions. We reached out to Chase to learn more about his journey as a child life professional and what he loves most about his role.

How long have you been a child life manager or specialist?

Five years as a manager with ÂÜÀòÉç Jacksonville, and I have been working as a child life specialist for more than seven years.

What inspired you to pursue a career as a certified child life specialist?

My inspiration came from a combination of my passion for working with children and my desire to help them navigate difficult experiences with care and compassion. I’ve always been drawn to understanding how children think, feel and express themselves, and I was particularly fascinated by how they cope with stress and fear. During my studies and through volunteer work in hospitals, I saw firsthand the impact that emotional support and therapeutic play can have on a child’s ability to cope with medical procedures or a hospital stay. I wanted to be someone who could provide that support — someone who could help children feel empowered, comforted and safe during challenging times. This drive to make a positive impact in the lives of children and families led me to pursue a career as a certified child life specialist.

Can you describe the primary responsibilities of a child life specialist?

My primary responsibility as a child life specialist is to support the emotional, psychological and developmental needs of children and families, especially in a health care setting. I help children understand and cope with the challenges of medical procedures or hospital stays through therapeutic play, preparation for medical experiences, and providing coping strategies. I also work with families to guide them through the process, offering support and helping them navigate their emotions during difficult times. My role is to ensure that the child's sense of normalcy and security is maintained, and that the hospital environment is as comfortable and child-friendly as possible.

How do you build trust with children and families during difficult or stressful situations?

Building trust starts with creating a safe and comforting environment for both children and their families. I approach each situation with empathy, being mindful of their feelings and unique circumstances. For children, I engage in play and communication that feels natural to them, always offering choices to give them a sense of control in a situation where they may feel powerless. For families, I make sure to listen to their concerns and provide clear, honest information, ensuring they feel heard and supported. Consistent, compassionate interactions and respecting each child's and family's individual needs are key to establishing a strong, trusting relationship.

How do you collaborate with other health care professionals to support the well-being of children?

Collaboration is essential in ensuring that the child’s well-being is prioritized across all aspects of care. I regularly communicate with doctors, nurses, social workers and other health care team members to discuss the child’s emotional and psychological needs. By sharing insights from my interactions with the child and family, we can work together to create a holistic care plan that addresses not just the physical health of the child but also their emotional and developmental needs. For instance, if a child is particularly anxious about a procedure, I might work with the medical team to provide preparation or distraction techniques, ensuring a more positive experience for the child. Teamwork is fundamental in fostering a supportive environment for both the child and their family.

What aspects of your role do you find most rewarding or enjoyable?

The most rewarding part of my role as a child life specialist is seeing children and families transform from a place of fear or uncertainty to a sense of comfort and understanding. Whether it's helping a child overcome their anxiety before a procedure, providing a safe space for them to express their emotions, or witnessing a family feel empowered with the tools and knowledge to navigate the hospital experience, those moments make it all worthwhile. I also find great fulfillment in knowing that I’m making a tangible difference in a child’s well-being by helping them cope, feel heard and maintain a sense of normalcy during a challenging time. Seeing families leave feeling more connected and supported is an incredible reward in itself.

How do you prioritize self-care while managing the demands of your role?

Prioritizing self-care is essential in a role like mine, where emotional and mental demands can be significant. I make sure to set boundaries and take time to recharge both physically and emotionally. This can include practicing mindfulness or meditation, and ensuring I have personal time outside of work to focus on activities that bring me joy, whether it’s spending time with loved ones, exercising or pursuing hobbies. I also lean on my support network, including colleagues and friends, who understand the challenges of the job and can offer encouragement and empathy. Recognizing when I need to seek support or take a step back is important to maintain my well-being so I can be the best support for the children and families I work with.

Visit ÂÜÀòÉçHealthJax.org/child-life to learn about the Child Life Program at ÂÜÀòÉç Jacksonville.