Certified Child Life Specialist, Jessica Lewin, talks with friend and CCLS, Caitlin Wolf, about her work in pediatric hematology/oncology, and how she prioritizes siblings through thoughtful interventions and family-centered care practices. With passion and creativity, she shares practical strategies for maintaining crucial connections between patients and siblings during lengthy hospital stays or repeated admissions.

From digital picture frames that allow photo sharing between hospital and home, to decorated name letters that give siblings ownership over a piece of the hospital environment, Caitlin demonstrates how even simple interventions can profoundly impact family cohesion. Her approach to recordable storybooks creates meaningful bonds that persist through treatment - and potentially beyond if a patient faces end-of-life circumstances.

Perhaps most striking is Caitlin's nuanced understanding of the ethical challenges surrounding diagnosis disclosure. While advocating for transparency and developmentally appropriate honesty, she respects the ultimate authority of parents to make decisions for their children. "Our job is to meet them where they are and walk with them through it," she explains, highlighting how child life specialists must balance professional guidance with family autonomy.

For both seasoned professionals and students entering the field, Caitlin's insights illuminate the importance of developing your own authentic practice style rather than mimicking others. Her journey reminds us that in child life, the wildest experiences often become our greatest teachers. Whether you're supporting families through pediatric cancer treatment or any healthcare journey, these strategies for sibling inclusion will enhance your practice and honor the whole family system.

You can follow Caitlin on Instagram at @caitlinwolf_.

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