Our Blog
News and insight from Franciscan about our philosophy of hope through healthcare and recent issues affecting children’s wellness.
Physical Fitness: Part of the Recipe for Success in the Classroom
Back-to-School season can mean a shift from an outdoor, active lifestyle to one focused around the classroom, and learning. But did you know that physical fitness is linked to success in the classroom?
Communication without Borders: Speech Language Pathologist Conducts Preeminent Research on Autism in Sri Lanka
We like to say that our employees share a remarkable and unwavering passion for helping each child reach his or her fullest potential. Nimisha Muttiah, one of our Speech-Language Pathologists, really embodies that claim.
Families Helping Families – Gavin & Kristen
It’s extraordinary people like Gavin, Kristen, and their families who inspire us all to be strong, generous, and constantly striving to stand for something greater than ourselves.
A Carnival Unlike Any Other
Each year on the last Friday in July the KID Fund Carnival is held onsite at Franciscan Hospital for Children, bringing together staff, children, families and guests for a day of laughter and fun.
Creativity at Work: the Kennedy Day School Art Show
A closer look at the Annual Kennedy Day School Art Show, the incredible talent of our students and staff, and the beauty and creativity that results from working hard and stepping out of your comfort zone!
New Pre-Op Space in Surgical Services
The surgical suite is one of several spaces at Franciscan Hospital for Children receiving significant facility upgrades to enhance the experience of our patients, families and staff.
Mental Health Support Services
Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation has been demonstrated to be effective in the treatment of a variety of mental health issues, and has been incorporated into a variety of therapeutic treatment approaches. In mindfulness practice we do our best to “be with” whatever is happening in an aware and self-loving way, often with a focus on present moment body sensations, thoughts, and emotions.
Korey’s Kennedy Day School Graduation
Korey Foley’s story at Franciscan began when he was just three years old. Nineteen years later, Korey has become a well-known, smiling face both inside and outside our halls for friends of the hospital and the Kennedy Day School (KDS). Last week we celebrated a big milestone for Korey, his family and his friends – his graduation from the Kennedy Day School.
WATCH’s 10 Top Summer Safety Traps
A long-awaited break from our harsh winter this year, there’s still plenty of room for fun and games this summer while also being conscious of the safety of your family! WATCH shares with us their 10 Top Summer Safety Traps and Summer Safety To-Do list.
Transition & Adult Services Resource Fair
A critical issue for families of children with disabilities, transition planning for adulthood is an area with which many parents struggle. Therefore, providing a forum for families to interact and connect with adult services professionals was both important and rewarding. We were thrilled to welcome over 20 families & numerous professionals to our first Transition and Adult Services Resource Fair.
“Competent Hands Matched with a Compassionate Heart”
This week we are celebrating Nurses Week and the nurses who deliver care across the hospital in virtually all of our programs. Their commitment to excellence, compassion and caring for our kids is something to be celebrated every day. Thank you, nurses!
Education Medical Services Mental Health
Thank You, Teachers!
In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, we asked our teachers to answer the question, “Which of your teachers has impacted you the most, and why?” Their answers are something to be shared and celebrated. How would you answer the question?
Sensory Play for a Rainy Day
Our Occupational Therapy team shares their favorite and creative play ideas that provide sensory input when outdoor activities are not available!
A Day in the Life of a Franciscan Child Life Specialist
In celebration of Child Life Month we’re giving you a peek into a day in the life of a Child Life Specialist at Franciscan and what makes our program so special!
Surgical Services: Child Life in the Operating Room
Courtney White, Certified Child Life Specialist, talks about the Child Life presence in the Surgical Services Operating Room at Franciscan Hospital for Children.
Kennedy Day School Expands Vision Services
Recent enhancements to the Kennedy Day School’s Vision Center room has allowed the program to expand services and created an even brighter place for students to grow!
Milk Myths
Did you know that kids ages 1 to 5 get almost 20% of their daily calories from milk? We’re investigating some myths associated with this healthy, popular drink.
A Fond Farewell to Kennedy Hope Academy
We’ve shared many memories with our friends from Kennedy Hope Academy over the years. Best wishes to these young men as they continue on their journey – it has been our privilege to watch you grow!
Heart in Hand Thank You
A brief recap of the 2014 Heart in Hand holiday campaign and our opportunity to say thank you to all those who participated in support of our kids and families.
How Donors Impact our Children and Families
Courtney DiStefano, Child Life, talks about how our donors impact the lives of our children and families and why your generosity matters.