By Carolyn Schneiders Fung, CCLS
L
auren’s journey as a Certified Child Life Specialist highlights the power of adaptability, innovation, and a deep commitment to making medical experiences more approachable for children and families. While often mistaken for a radiology child life specialist, Lauren’s expertise lies in the research setting, where she plays a critical role in ensuring children’s comfort and success during MRI-based studies.
Employed full-time by a university and funded through a research grant, Lauren was specifically hired as a child life specialist for the study. She joined before data collection began, developing a protocol for MRI assessment and preparation tailored to the needs of typically developing children ages 6.5 to 9. Her work extends beyond direct patient interactions—she also collaborates with research staff to ensure they feel confident and prepared to engage with children and families.
Unlike clinical-based studies, this research does not involve treatment. Instead, Lauren’s role focuses on creating a developmentally appropriate experience for participants and their families. She implements the protocol by being present for MRI visits, welcoming entire families into the center, and ensuring that siblings are included through engaging, age-appropriate activities. The study follows participants over time, with a second MRI scan occurring 18 months after the initial visit.
The research is not affiliated with a hospital, and the imaging center is located on campus, serving multiple university labs across various studies. As the manager of the imaging team, Lauren ensures the smooth operation of all MRI visits—stocking materials, maintaining equipment, training staff, and coordinating schedules based on participant availability. She reports directly to the principal investigators, overseeing data collection to ensure efficiency and accuracy.
One of Lauren’s most rewarding experiences is witnessing children overcome their initial nervousness about an MRI. Seeing their pride when they successfully complete the procedure—something they once thought was impossible—is a testament to the impact of child life support in research settings. Her innovative use of a virtual reality headset, which helps children practice staying still for the scan while earning stars in a game, has transformed MRI preparation into an engaging and empowering experience.
Lauren’s foundation in traditional hospital-based child life work gave her the confidence and expertise to build a research-based child life program from the ground up. Her story is a powerful testament to the versatility of child life specialists—demonstrating how their skills can extend beyond hospitals to influence research, shape best practices, and redefine what it means to support children and families in medical and scientific settings.