How & Why?
Why Drop-In Child Care at Hospitals?
My Little Waiting Room® aims to help families visiting the hospital. It’s for moms and dads who are patients heading to routine exams or tests; visiting relatives in the ICU; giving birth to more children; unexpectedly landing in the Emergency Room; or the like.
It’s a service that’s desperately needed. Public health studies show that lack of childcare is a major barrier to women seeking healthcare. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health states women caregivers are: 50% more likely than other women to report difficulties getting needed medical care, and twice as likely not to get care when they need it.
Further, the Family Caregiver Alliance says family caregivers report failure to stay in bed when ill, and postponement of or failure to make medical appointments.
How It Works
We know hospitals are not in the business of child care. Yet, many nurses and other staff find themselves minding children in waiting areas, hallways, and exam rooms. While these compassionate individuals are happy to help, it is not an ideal situation nor is it sustainable.
Instead of having kids hang-out in places that aren't particularly child-friendly or safe, it is our vision to give them a special place to call their own, feel comfortable, and have fun.
My Little Waiting Rooms are staffed with child care experts who work with the children to decrease their fears and to empower them during their stay. My Little Waiting Room is a drop-in service so that all families have access to the child care they need when visiting the medical center.