The use of computer technology in everyday life has bloomed, especially in the past decade. Today's children use technology in a way that was never dreamed of by past generations. Not only is it used to provide the highest quality of medical care, but it allows us to connect to our families, share experiences, and remain in easy contact with those that we care about and work with.

The Frances Pope Memorial Foundation has generously funded the Andrew Baeumler Technology Program since 1999 to enhance the quality of life for Pediatric patients during hospitalization. This valuable gift has been developed at Mount Sinai in memory of Andrew Baeumler , who, as a patient here in Pediatrics expressed his desire to have increased access to technology modalities.

Through this and other gifts, The Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Department strives to bring today's technologies to our pediatric populations in order to maintain and promote what is now a normal and expected level of connectivity for the families we serve.

Laptops in Child Life:
As DVD players, windows to the internet, and therapeutic tools, our laptops are used vigorously in all pediatric areas.

Children in Isolation:
Children in isolation now have a live 24/7 connection to outside family and friends. Keeping peer relationships and continuing normal social lives outside of the hospital breaks down the walls of medical isolation.

Children in Dialysis:
The Passport to Fun Project is uses laptop computers to allow children and teens who receive three hour dialysis sessions to have their own virtual adventures and access special programs.

Starbright Fun Centers and PC Pals:
Packed with DVDs and a Nintendo GameCube, Fun centers are in high demand!. PCPals are packed with dozens of games for pre-teens!

Technology in the Zone:
Desktop computers, a state of the art digital theater, KidZone TV, and a digitally connected Family Resource Center Library grant access to entertainment, distraction, and advanced medical knowledge for our pediatric patients and their families.

Special Projects:
All pediatric patients also have access to the following special programs:

•  Audio Book Library
•  iTunes Library
•  Digital movie library
•  Starbright world
•  Music creation and recording with a specially equipped Music Therapist
•  Video creation with an videographer in residence