The Therapeutic Clown Program
Established in 1993, The Therapeutic Clown Program at SickKids provides patients and families with therapeutic clown care, using spontaneous humour and gentle play to minimize stress during hospitalization and treatment. Working under the umbrella of the hospital’s Department of Child Life, therapeutic clowns collaborate closely with Child Life Specialists, and other members of the multi-professional team to develop therapeutic strategies within the model of family-centered care.
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Clowning is an innovative and effective form of therapy and like laughter is contagious. Therapeutic clowning can be a vital part of a child’s recovery. On a daily basis, therapeutic clowns demonstrate that laughter may just be the best medicine.
The Therapeutic Clown Program at SickKids provides approximately 10 000 patient visits per year. A. Leboo, Bunky, Clutter, Doko, Lubee, Mary Sunshine, Mosca, Nuula, Roo, Rose and Tushkin visit patients on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays on in-patient floors 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 and in out-patient clinics.
This unique program relies solely on the generous donations of caring individuals, foundations and corporations. We receive no funding from the operating budget of the hospital. The program relies on its’ own annual fundraising initiatives and receives in-kind services from both SickKids and SickKids Foundation.
How you can support the Therapeutic Clown Program at SickKids
- Host an event at your home or office!
- Bring clown nose day to your children’s school!
- Become a monthly donor!
- Tell your friends about us!
Each year, people from all walks of life come to our program asking what they can do to help bring light hearts and healing play to sick children. Without them, we simply wouldn’t be here. If you would like to join our family of friends by hosting an event at your home or office or by bringing Clown Nose Day to your children’s school or community - we can help! Or if you have another idea that could help put smiles on children’s faces, please call Lucia Cino or Susan Riddell at 416-813-6629. Your help will make a lasting difference in the lives of sick and injured children at SickKids.
For more information about supporting the program please see How to donate to our program.
Manager - Lucia Cino
Office Manager - Susan Riddell
Phone: 416-813-6629
Fax: 416-813-5364
e-mail: lucia.cino@sickkids.ca