Which populations require additional language and communication considerations in child life practice?

• A. Families with limited English proficiency; low health literacy; ensure interpreters and plain-language materials.
• B. Only native English speakers.
• C. Only families with high health literacy.
• D. Only families with children who have chronic illnesses.

Answer: (B)

Clear and accessible communication is essential in child life practice to ensure families understand information, feel supported, and can participate in care decisions. The populations that require extra language and communication considerations are those with limited English proficiency and low health literacy. In practice this means arranging for professional interpreters, providing plain-language materials, and using teach-back methods and visuals to verify understanding. Relying only on native English speakers misses a significant portion of families who may struggle with language or medical terminology; health literacy varies and even those who speak English can benefit from plain-language resources and culturally sensitive communication. While families with chronic illnesses need information tailored to ongoing care, the broader takeaway is to ensure accessible communication for all families, so that consent, participation, and coping are truly supported.