Welcome to Jen Dawson, our new Lakeside Pediatrics Community Health Worker (Child Life Specialist)

Meet Jen!

Jen is a dedicated and compassionate Pediatric Community Health Worker at Lakeside Pediatrics. With a passion for child health and community well-being, Jen is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of children and families in the Lakeside community.

As a Pediatric Community Health Worker, Jen will work to bridge the gap between healthcare services and community resources, ensuring that every child has access to comprehensive care and support. She is skilled in conducting community outreach, building partnerships with local organizations, and empowering families to take control of their health.

With 22 years of experience working as a Certified Child Life Specialist at UVM Children’s Hospital, she brings a unique blend of skills and expertise to her role. Her goal is to provide emotional support, therapeutic activities, and resources to help children feel more comfortable and confident during medical visits. Whether it’s preparing for a procedure, managing anxiety, or simply providing a comforting presence, she is here to support your child every step of the way. She believes in the power of play and creative expression as tools for coping and healing, and she is ecstatic to bring a variety of fun and engaging activities to Lakeside Pediatrics.

Sibling support is another aspect of her role. Sibling support provided by Child Life Specialists helps siblings feel included, informed, and supported throughout their sibling’s medical journey, promoting resilience and strengthening family relationships. Child Life Specialists educate siblings about their brother or sister’s illness or injury in a developmentally appropriate manner. They explain medical procedures, treatments, and changes in their sibling’s behavior or appearance, helping siblings understand what is happening and alleviating fears or misconceptions. Child Life Specialists provide emotional support to siblings, acknowledging their feelings of confusion, fear, or jealousy that may arise when a sibling is hospitalized or undergoing medical treatment. They create a safe space for siblings to express their emotions and offer reassurance and comfort.

Child Life Specialists also offer grief and bereavement support to help families cope with loss, specifically siblings. They provide age-appropriate resources, support groups, and counseling services to help children navigate the grieving process and honor their loved one’s memory.

At Lakeside Pediatrics, we understand that each child is unique, and we are committed to providing personalized care that meets the individual needs of every family we serve. Jen is here to listen, advocate, and empower your child to navigate their healthcare journey with confidence and resilience.

Jen lives with her almost 18-year-old son, Griffin, and their two cats Tyrone and Talulah. She loves being by the ocean in the Summer and traveling to tropical destinations any chance she can get!

Next time you visit Lakeside Pediatrics, be sure to say hello to Jen and see how she can support your family’s health and well-being! She can also be reached Monday through Friday at the office if you would like to consult with her about the needs of your family.