When the Children's Art Project began funding patient programs in the early 1970s, the focus was on providing cheer and comfort for young patients, most of whom did not survive their battles with cancer. With improved treatments, more young patients survive their disease. Programs funded by the project have evolved to include college scholarships, educational programs and other opportunities that prepare pediatric patients for successful lives after cancer.
 

Child & Adolescent Life Program

The Child Life Program is an integral component of the team approach to treating a pediatric patient. Child Life specialists work with children in both the inpatient and outpatient areas and also with many adolescents who are being treated in adult services at MD Anderson. These specialists use therapeutic interventions such as play, age appropriate education and activities; offer emotional support during procedures; and offer medical play and preparation for medical procedures and surgeries. They plan and implement daily activities and recreational programs to normalize a child's stay in the hospital and in the outpatient clinic. Activities include parties, field trips, special teen activities, movie night, BINGO and Teen Grill.

Educational Programs

With Children's Art Project funds, young patient educational needs are met in a variety of ways. Hospital classrooms equipped with educational materials and computers enable pediatric and adolescent patients to continue their schoolwork during treatment.  Program helps patients maintain their educational skills during the summer through tutoring and educational field trips.  Through the School Liaison Program, an Educational Coordinator visits patients' home schools to educate teachers and fellow classmates about the patients' experience, ensuring a smooth and positive reintegration into the classroom. The English as a Second Language Program provides books, audiocassettes, flash cards and other materials to non-English-speaking patients. Children's Art Project funds also provide for the art classes, a "Writers in the Schools" program, a music therapy program and special educational field trips.

College and Graduate School Scholarships

Since 1984, current and former patients pursuing their educational dreams have received scholarship funds for college and graduate school. With aspirations of becoming accountants, physicians, artists, teachers and more, many young patients have earned degrees with Children's Art Project funds. For the families of these students, the cancer experience takes a devastating financial toll, and these scholarships are vital to help finance their children's college educations.

Camp Star Trails

Hundreds of young cancer patients and their siblings have attended Camp Star Trails, an overnight summer camp established in 1983 in keeping with MD Anderson's emphasis on normal childhood experiences and development. Since cancer touches the lives of each family member, the pediatrics staff believes it is important that siblings have the opportunity to share in all aspects of patient treatment and recreation. Campers ages 5-12 enjoy fishing, canoeing, swimming, arts and crafts, softball, basketball, cooking, soccer, archery, nature study, drama and science experiments. Each year, some 150 youngsters from across the country attend the one-week session of Camp Star Trails, held at Camp For All in Washington County, Texas.


Camp A.O.K.

Camp A.O.K. (Anderson's Older Kids) was established in 1988 for adolescent patients and their siblings. This overnight summer camp offers swimming, fishing, tennis, horseback riding, golf, photography, arts and crafts, basketball, softball and volleyball — all uniquely targeted to fit the needs of teenagers coping with cancer. Each summer, some 50 campers ages 13-18 attend Camp A.O.K., held at Camp Fred A. Lennon near Magnolia, Texas.

Arts in Medicine Program

With a goal of making children feel better, the program involves patients in fun collaborative projects designed to reduce anxiety and pain, build positive connections, elevate self-esteem and create a positive association with the hospital.

Adolescent and Young Adult Program

 Inspired by the growing number of adolescent patients and survivors, the program addresses challenges unique to this demographic.  By encouraging and developing confidence, life skills, and friendships, patients are better equipped to deal with complex issues on the road to adulthood.

Candlelighters

The organization provides emotional, educational and practical support to children with cancer and their families.  Some of their services include parking expense assistance, meal vouchers, gas and drug store gift cards, and an annual Fall Family Festival.

Pediatric Parties

Magicians, musicians and other special guests have entertained pediatric patients and their family members since 1978. Bringing joy and laughter to the children, these parties have become an MD Anderson tradition and a welcome diversion from clinic appointments and hospital stays.

Other Patient-Focused Programs

Funds from Children’s Art Project sales support a variety of other programs, from pediatric parent dinners, to rehabilitation guides, to pediatric bereavement programs.