A Welcoming Place

The hospital is a welcoming place for children and families.  A great deal of thought has been given to how to make a visit to our hospital less scary for kids. 

Friendly volunteers greet you when you enter our child-friendly lobby.  The lobby design was donated by Disney Imagineers and incorporates lots of natural light, fun play areas, and access to our meditation and healing gardens. 

The Joyce and Stanley Black and Family Healing and Meditation Gardens are easily accessible to patients, family members, and staff.  All three groups use the space which was designed with a child’s recovery in mind. 

For Patients
Plants and trees in the garden were chosen for their low-allergen qualities.  A seed planting area is used for patients who need to develop their fine motor skills.  A maze in the middle of the garden has been designed with uneven stones to help children who are relearning how to walk or are honing their balance skills.  Tiles painted by patients are integrated into the garden walls.  Patient poetry graces the benches.
Electrical outlets suitable for intravenous poles have been integrated throughout the garden so that all children who are able to enjoy the garden are able to do so. 

For Families
Along with a grass area for children to play and explore, the gardens incorporate several bench areas where families can enjoy a picnic outside. 

For Staff
Staff often take their lunch outdoors to enjoy the bright Los Angeles sunshine, or enjoy a quick break with their fellow colleagues outside before attending to their next patient.

Everyone at our hospital has the sensitivity, compassion, and medical expertise to work with children.  It is not uncommon for the faces of our patients to brighten upon seeing that their favorite nurse or doctor has entered the room. 

The hospital offers many supportive services designed to alleviate the stress of hospitalization both for our patients, and for their family members.  We invite you to explore these programs online.