Programs and Consultations at the Child Development Center

The Child Development Center offers many programs for infants and adolescents facing surgery, learning disabilities, speech impairments and attention deficit disorder, among others. Following is an overview of our programs and contact information. We look forward to hearing from you.

Pre-Admission Program for Pediatric Surgery (Outpatient)

To help you and your child become more familiar and comfortable with the hospital environment, California Pacific Medical Center's Child Development Center offers this program for incoming pediatric patients and their families prior to the day of admission. If your child is scheduled for surgery or a medical procedure, you and your child are encouraged to attend the Pre-Admission Program. Being introduced to the hospital ahead of time can make your child's stay less fearful. The one-hour program features a medical play session, a tour of the Operating Room and Recovery Room (when possible) and other areas your child may see. Teens also welcomed to attend. Registration required.

Call 415-600-6278 for more information.

Dates: California Campus - Mondays & Wednesdays, 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Pacific Campus by appointment.
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Adolescent Progam

For adolescents ages 12-21: Educational testing and therapy, psychological testing and therapy, assessments to diagnose learning disabilities, and consults regarding college choices and admission testing are offered. Consultations and community referrals are also provided.

Call 415-600-6200 for more information.
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Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Program

The Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder program is geared towards school age children ages 6-12. Children's behavior is assessed in the context of their home, classroom, and social environment, in collaboration with the primary care physician. A treatment plan is developed including education to patients, parents, and school, with ongoing follow-up as needed.

Call 415-600-6200 for more information.
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Child Life Inpatient Program for Pediatric Surgery or Medical Procedures

To help you and your child become more familiar and comfortable with the hospital environment. The inpatient program located on the Pacific Campus can help children understand and cope with any medical procedures.

The program also promotes continued growth and development through the child's hospital stay, infant massage, activities that help create a "home like" environment, playroom activities, assists in transition back to normal activities, and helps siblings understand and be involved with the families hospital experience.

Contact: Doug Venell, CCLS
Phone: 415-600-0711
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Fast ForWord Oral Language Program

A computer-based learning program designed by Scientific Learning, Fast ForWord programs help children who have language and reading problems acquire the oral language skills necessary for learning to read or becoming a better reader. Using optimal learning principles, integrated skill training and acoustically modified sounds, Fast ForWord helps children assemble the "pieces" of the language puzzle necessary for learning to read. Fast ForWord is geared towards children ages 3-12.

Call 415-600-6208 for more information.
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Integrated Playgroups

Under staff supervision, integrated playgroups are formed to further enhance a child's social, languge, and motor skills utilizing speech and language, occupational therapy and behavioral therapy. For children ages 3-10 years of age.

Call 415-600-6200 for more information.

Cost: Not covered by insurance plans.

Time: Playgroups meet for one hour weekly for 10- or 12-week sessions.
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Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy assessment and treatment is available for patients with coordination disorders and fine motor problems.

Call 415-600-6200 for more information.
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Parent Infant Program

Available under Infant Services (Birth to Age 3 Years) in the Child Development Center at California Pacific Medical Center. This early intervention program for children at risk for developmental disorders is supported by Golden Gate Regional Center. It assists the child in many areas of development and teaches the parent(s) how to further skill development.

Children aged 5 months to 3 years spend 2 hours once a week in a small group in a preschool like setting staffed by an infant educator, a speech/language pathologist, physical therapist, and occupational therapist. Parents participate in a support group and have access to information, resources, and referrals. Each family is also eligible for 3 home visits a month. Families also have the option of participating in a home visit only program, where the child is seen for 4-5 visits a month in his most natural environment. At age 3 children are transitioned to the school district.

Call 415-600-6200 for more information.
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Physical Therapy

Physical therapy assessment and/or treatment for patients with cerebral palsy, brachial plexus injury, torticollis, and other neuromuscular conditions.

Call 415-600-6200 for more information.
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Psychological Assessment and Treatment

Evaluations of cognitive and emotional development; short term individual/family psychotherapy. Consultations to families on behavior management and child rearing issues.

Call 415-600-6200 for more information.
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School Age Program/Educational Therapy

For children ages 6-12 years: Assessments of educational achievement, cognitive development, possible learning issues, learning aptitude, handwriting skills and psychosocial adjustment are offered. Educational therapy is available in one-to-one or group setting for the learning disabled student. Consultations to schools and school visits can be arranged.

Call 415-600-6200 for information.

Cost: Not covered by insurance plans. Call 415-600-6200 for fee information.
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Sibling Visits to the NBICU

The Child Life Staff at California Pacific Medical Center is piloting a program to help siblings visit their new brother or sister in the NBICU. Parents and children are able to attend the program together. The NBICU can be an overwhelming place. The goal of the program is to prepare children before they enter the unit. This is done by using dolls, toys, and real medical equipment to give explanations at your child's developmental level. After the play session, we go into the unit (if the child chooses) to meet the child's brother or sister. After questions are answered, the Child Life Specialist leaves and lets your family finish the visit.

Dates: Monday through Friday, mornings.

Call 415-750-6278 for appointments.
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Speech and Language Therapy

Assessment and treatment for children with speech and oral language delays, articulation problems, and oral facial abnormalities. Evaluation is required for program participation.

Call 415-600-6200 for more information.
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Whitney Clinic

Available at the Child Development Center under Infant Services (birth to age 3 years). This is a weekly clinic for graduates of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to monitor the child's development.

Patients are examined by a neonatologist and a developmental specialist, including one or more of the following: developmental pediatrician, infant psychologist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, and, if indicated, a pediatric neurologist. A hearing test is also done when indicated. A social worker is available to assist the parents with resources and provide support. Patients are seen 3 times during their first 2 years.

Call (415)600-6200 for more information.
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