Child Life and Developmental Services - Inpatient Psychiatric Unit

Bellevue Hospital's inpatient children's psychiatric unit (21 South) is a temporary home to youngsters 3 - 12 years old. The unit's staff provides the structure, routines and activities that promote behavioral emotional and cognitive growth for the youngsters. Some have behavioral problems, attention disorders, inappropriate or harmful social conduct or psychotic episodes. These children will live on the ward for at least three weeks for comprehensive psychological and psychiatric evaluations. Some may remain up to a year, until more permanent placement can be found for them.

While they are in Bellevue, the children attend a special New York City public school on the 21st floor, and they are immersed in the therapeutic milieu of the unit. These patients may have many new experiences during their stay. Children Life Specialists take them on outings to State parks, special trips to ball games and other cultural events that provide opportunities to learn through activities and experiences. They also help kids find positive ways to express themselves artistically, work on self-improvement and provide channels for the children to express themselves in a non-threatening manner.

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