Evidence-Based Tools for Children's Medical Care
Together, we transform medical moments.
When a child faces medical challenges, every moment counts. By using play and connection, we can turn scary procedures into bonding opportunities.
Developed with experts and families, our tools give you practical ways to improve each medical moment—from the smallest ripple to the biggest waves, we got you!
Play Heals
The Power of Positive Engagement
76%
reduced anxiety through medical play preparation
Child Life Council 2022
47%
improved compliance with guided participation
Journal of Pediatric Nursing 2023
55%
increased engagement using interactive preparation tools
Patient Experience Journal 2023
When Medicine Meets Childhood Magic
Every parent knows that moment: your child needs medicine, and suddenly everything changes. That's where our story began - in an emergency room, where tears and fears transformed into something extraordinary.
Through the expertise of child life specialists at world leading Children's Hospitals, we learned that the most powerful medicine often isn't in the bottle - it's in how we give it.
What we saw transformed our understanding:
-
Cold spray becoming "Elsa's magic"
-
Scary procedures turning into adventures
-
Medicine time shifting from battles to bonding
This wasn't just luck. These were research-backed techniques that worked so well, we had to share them with other families.
What's Inside:
-
A special song set to familiar tunes that makes medicine time playful
-
Interactive choice boards that give children agency in their medical journey
-
Evidence-based strategies developed with child life specialists
-
Beautiful illustrations that capture children's imagination
Perfect For:
-
Daily medicine routines
-
Hospital preparation
-
Doctor visits
-
Medical procedures
Everyone takes medicine, that is true— Grandma, Grandpa, and babies too!
— From "A Spoonful of Courage"
Key Research Findings
Decades of pediatric research have shown what works. We've built these proven principles into every page.
The Power of Movement
Research shows active movement during medical procedures naturally reduces stress hormones and anxiety in children.
- That's why our approach includes playful
gestures and actions
Choice Creates Control
Studies confirm that even small choices during medical experiences significantly improve children's sense of control.
- Our interactive choice boards give children agency in their care
Early Experiences Matter
Research demonstrates that positive medical experiences in early childhood shape lifelong healthcare attitudes
- We focus on creating positive associations from the start
How We Apply This Research
Every element in our book comes from evidence-based practices in pediatric care. From our movement-based song to our interactive choice boards, we've translated leading research into practical tools that work in real life.
Be Part of the Change
This is more than a book—it's the beginning of a movement to transform how children experience medicine. And it starts with you.
WHY NOW?
72M+
pediatric healthcare visits annually in the US
CDC, 2023
82%
of pediatricians seek better compliance tools
American Academy of Pediatrics
87%
of parents report needing support during treatment
Patient Experience Journal 2023
Making a Difference At Every Level
Whether you're a parent, provider, or organization, there's a place for you in transforming children's medical experiences.
FOR PARENTS
& FAMILIES
Transform medicine time
into moments of connection and growth
For Healthcare Providers
Access tools to improve patient experience and compliance
For Organizations
Partner with us to create positive change at scale
The Brave Little Otter Universe
Our vision extends beyond books to create a complete ecosystem of support for families navigating medical experiences. Every product is designed with input from healthcare professionals and families.
Ottie Heartwell Puppet
An interactive companion bringing stories to life and making medical play more engaging. Designed with child life specialists to support medical preparation and comfort.
Coming Summer 2025
Digital Companions
Interactive apps and preparation tools designed to support families through every step of their medical journey. Evidence-based support at your fingertips.
Coming Fall 2025
Comfort Line
Medical-procedure-friendly clothing designed with both comfort and dignity in mind. Making hospital stays and procedures easier for everyone.
Coming Fall 2025