Methodological Materials and Swallow Tips

The distraction cards were created as a practical tool for working with children — helping to initiate communication, provide relief in difficult situations, support calming, or even assess pain intensity.
They are designed for doctors, nurses, psychologists, therapists, play specialists, and other caregivers who are looking for effective and accessible ways to interact with children in various settings — especially in hospital environments or when working with children with complex needs.

 

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At Vlaštovka, we are increasingly aware of how important it is not to overlook healthy siblings in the challenging situation of serious illness. That’s why we created the comic We Can Get Through This Together, which opens up this often neglected topic.

Through the story of a boy named Vojta, whose sister Ema has become seriously ill, we explore the world of the healthy sibling — his emotions, worries, and what helps him cope with the changes in his family.

 

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Vlaštovka’s director, Michaela Váňová, contributed a chapter titled “The Pain of Life’s End Eased Through Art” to the Czech Medical Chamber’s book Pain in Medicine. The chapter explores the role of artistic creation in the context of palliative care.
The author examines how art and play can support families and patients in the terminal stages of life in coping with pain and emotional distress.

 

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We educate ourselves and draw inspiration abroad:

• through our internships at UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital and Children’s Hospital in the USA, Stollery Children’s Hospital in Canada, and at Noah's Ark Children’s Hospice in England

• we consult our steps with experts from the American Association of Child Life Professionals and receive support from the British Society of Health Play Specialists

• in our work we follow their professional standards and pursue education in line with the requirements of American professional certification