The Art of Giving Guidelines

Here are a few rules to remember when completing the form:

All visitors to patient care areas must be at least 14 years old, have current vaccinations and be free of illnesses (fever, sore throat, cold, etc.). Because large groups and long visits can be overwhelming for patients, limit your group to five members and your visit to no more than one hour.
Members of performance groups providing activities in the hospital’s lobby or general areas must be at least 10 years old, have current vaccinations and be free of illnesses (fever, sore throat, cold, etc.). Performance groups should have no more than 10 members and performances should last no more than 30 minutes. Patients may not always feel well enough to attend a party or event, but don’t be discouraged – even two appreciative children make a good audience.
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled activity time. Call the appropriate contact if you are going to be late, as your visit or activity may need to be rescheduled.
Presentations should be appropriate for children of all ages and backgrounds. Avoid content that deals with emotionally threatening themes like death, illness, etc.
If your group plans on taking any photographs, discuss this with Child Life and Expressive Therapy staff prior to your scheduled visit.

When interacting with patients and families during your visit:

We ask that you do not ask patients why they are in the hospital.
Do not discuss, reveal, copy or in any way disclose or attempt to gain access to information about any patient who is receiving or has received health care services at Kosair Children’s Hospital.
Do not exchange personal information with patients or family members.
Because Kosair Children’s Hospital respects the beliefs and values of all individuals, we ask that groups provide equal services to families while respecting their race, culture, religion and socio-economic status. Respect the beliefs of our patients by not including religious gifts as part of your program or handouts.
All members of your group must stay with the hospital-appointed group leader at all times.
Dress comfortably and appropriately for contact with children in a hospital environment (avoid tank tops, low-cut shirts, sandals). If you are wearing a costume, choose one a child would find cheerful and not frightening.

Donations and Gifts: Things you need to know

All donations to the Child Life and Expressive Therapy Department are tax deductible through the Children’s Hospital Foundation. To learn more about helping Kosair Children’s Hospital, call (502) 629-8060 or visit HelpKosairChildrensHospital.com.
Avoid toys that could present a choking hazard, have sharp pieces or that fall apart easily.
Because of our infection control policy, stuffed/cloth toys must be new.
Patients range in age from newborns to teenagers. Consider all ages when bringing toys or gifts.
Make sure all toys for hospital/playroom use are washable. No cloth items or toys are allowed for general hospital use.
Latex items are not allowed in the hospital. This includes balloons and toys made of latex products.
New donations can be dropped off weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. in the lobby of Kosair Children’s Hospital, 231 E. Chestnut St., or call the Child Life and Expressive Therapy Department at (502) 629-7542 to schedule a dropoff. Your name, address and phone number should be attached to your donation.
If you have any questions about most-needed items or general questions about donations or delivery, call Kosair Children’s Hospital Child Life and Expressive Therapy Department(502) 629-7542.