The Children's Inn at NIH is a private, non-profit, family-centered residence for pediatric outpatients at the NIH and for their families. Its purposes are to keep children together with their families during serious illness, reduce their stress and facilitate their healing through mutual support. The Inn relies on private contributions for its operating funds. The Inn currently has 36 rooms for patients and their families, with a new wing that will accommodate another 18 families, opening in 2003. Amenities at The Inn include two fully stocked kitchens, dining room, living room, game room, library, playground, sleeping rooms, playroom and family room. Reservations at The Inn are arranged by Pediatric Oncology Branch social workers. Stays at The Inn are provided at no cost. Donations to The Inn are gratefully accepted.

The Children's Inn Philosophy

The overriding philosophy at The Children's Inn is that families do make a difference. The ideals of positive parenting, positive role models, self-help, personal responsibility and the strengths gained through inter-and intra-family support are the foundation this facility rests upon. The staff and volunteers at The Children's Inn have been carefully selected and committed to the principles for which this facility stands. All of those in direct contact with children, youth and families are especially sensitive, perceptive and compassionate people. The Children's Inn has already served hundreds of children and families, but it has not finished taking shape. The evaluation of the programs and services by the residents, staff and board is ongoing.

A Look at the Children's Inn
Physically, The Inn consists of private rooms where a child in treatment and his or her family stay; a library where children and families can find self-help and coping materials, magazines, books and tapes; kitchen and dining areas; large community rooms; game and computer rooms; playroom and laundry facilities.

The Children's Inn is a family-centered residence with a deep concern for the whole child and the whole family as they experience the challenges of chronic illness. These challenges are physical, emotional and financial. In its operation, The Inn seeks to address the fact that in coping with chronic illness in children, families often experience financial stress, isolation, feelings of incompetence and loss of control over their lives. And for some families, The Children's Inn at NIH permits participation in NIH research programs that children otherwise could not take part in because of family separation and other difficulties.

For more information, visit the Children's Inn web site at http://www.childrensinn.org/

Last Updated: July 26, 2006

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