Southern Alberta Youth and Child Network Therapeutic Clown Program
SPARKLE and JUMPA bring laughter, joy and wonder to the children, youth and families at the Alberta Children's Hospital and throughout the Southern Alberta Child and Youth Health Network.
Working together with other members of the pediatric healthcare team, they offer a unique form of support to patients and families during their hospital visit. Distraction strategies help patients cope with medical procedures and treatments. In addition, social and emotional support is provided to everyone involved in the patient's care.
Their playful antics, spontaneity and imaginative interaction are guided by the child or youth
throughout their hospitalization or when they come to the hospital as an outpatient.
Storytelling, improvisation, face painting, puppetry, magical tricks, music, movement and
dance are some of the ways SPARKLE and JUMPA instill hope and elicit laughter. Indeed,
laughter is a language that crosses all cultures and traditions, and humor has been
scientifically proven to heal the mind, body and spirit. These benefits were discovered early
on clowning is a 5000 year-old tradition!
SPARKLE and JUMPA visit various areas of the hospital: inpatient units, playrooms,
outpatient clinics, emergency department, hallways, elevators, waiting areas and Emily's
Backyard. Additionally, community sessions are offered periodically. The Therapeutic Clown
Program is available on a flexible schedule each week. While we have established regular
obligations, there is still some flexibility in the schedule, and we will accommodate requests
and referrals as they arise.
Please email or phone them at 955-7629 for info or to arrange a visit.
jumpa@calgaryhealthregion.ca sparkle@calgaryhealthregion.ca
Family & Community Resource Centre