Child Life professionals

Pioneering Child Life Care in Russia: Ekaterina Stefanenko Begins Certification

In March, Ekaterina Stefanenko, a clinical psychologist at the Federal Oncohematology Pediatric Center (Dima Rogachev Center, Moscow), began her training to become the first certified Child Life Specialist in Russia. This milestone was made possible through the generosity of donors and supporters of Podari.Life Inc., and in collaboration with our sister charity in Russia, the Podari Zhizn Foundation.

The Child Life certification, granted by the Child Life Council (now the Association of Child Life Professionals), is a specialized qualification that equips professionals with the tools and knowledge to support children facing long-term hospital stays and complex medical treatments.

“This qualification is a critical part of the childhood cancer cure,” says Ekaterina. “Children undergoing cancer treatment spend months in the hospital, often in an unfamiliar and frightening environment. A clinical psychologist helps them cope with the challenges of illness and hospitalization.”

Child Life methods are play-based and explanatory, designed to prepare children for medical procedures through storytelling, games, and emotional support.

A Legacy of Healing Through Play

The Child Life model has its roots in post–World War I Western hospitals, where medical staff struggled to meet the emotional and developmental needs of young patients. One of the pioneers of this approach was Emma Plank, a close collaborator of Maria Montessori. Plank’s groundbreaking work laid the foundation for a profession dedicated to helping children and families navigate the psychological burdens of illness, pain, and hospital isolation.

“Modern Child Life care includes three essential components,” explains Ekaterina.
“First, we help children manage the emotional toll of being separated from their families.
Second, we explain what’s happening—both the illness itself and the medical procedures they face.
Finally, we support them in coping with the many limitations that come with cancer treatment.”

Ekaterina graduated with honors in Clinical Psychology from Moscow State University and has worked at the Rogachev Center for over four years. After completing her Child Life training, she will return to Moscow as Russia’s first certified Child Life Specialist, bringing a vital new approach to pediatric oncology care.

We’re proud to support Ekaterina on this journey and will continue to keep you updated on her progress.