Lauren Wilder

Lauren Wilder

lkw0050@auburn.edu

I am a graduate student at Auburn University pursuing a Master’s degree in Child Life. I earned my bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Georgia Southern University. With experience in pediatric healthcare, child development, and community outreach, I am passionate about supporting children and families through challenging experiences. My goal is to become a Certified Child Life Specialist and provide compassionate, developmentally appropriate, and family-centered care. War Eagle!

Education

  • Associates of Applied Science in Orthopedics Southern Crescent Technical College2023

  • Bachelors in Human Development and Family Science Georgia Southern University2026

Professional Experience

My professional experience includes working as an Orthopedic Technician at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, where I assisted with applying casts, braces, and splints while helping pediatric patients feel comfortable and informed throughout their orthopedic care. I have also gained valuable experience as a Child Life Volunteer at a children's hospital in Macon, Georgia, where I worked alongside Certified Child Life Specialists and observed developmentally appropriate interventions to support patients and families during hospitalization. Additionally, my experience as a cabin counselor at Camp Twin Lakes has allowed me to support teenage girls with medical conditions while encouraging independence, confidence, and positive social interactions. These experiences have strengthened my passion for pediatric healthcare and my commitment to supporting the developmental, emotional, and psychosocial needs of children and their families.

Innovation

My research interests focus on the impact of hospitalization and medical experiences on children's development, emotional well-being, and family dynamics. Building on my background in Human Development and Family Studies, I am particularly interested in exploring how Child Life interventions, including therapeutic play, procedural preparation, and developmentally appropriate education, can promote positive coping and reduce anxiety in pediatric healthcare settings. I am also interested in the effects of chronic illness on children and their families, the experiences of siblings of hospitalized children, and the role of family-centered care in supporting patients throughout their healthcare journey. Additionally, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of how Child Life Specialists can support children and families during end-of-life care and other difficult medical experiences. Through my graduate studies at Auburn University, I look forward to expanding my knowledge of evidence-based practices and contributing to research that strengthens the field of Child Life.

Engagement

My outreach experiences have allowed me to serve children, families, and individuals in a variety of community settings. Through volunteering with Jay's Hope foundation, Best Buddies/Special Olympics, Night to Shine event, and my church's children's ministry, I have had opportunities to build meaningful connections, encourage inclusion, and support the needs of others. I have also served as a counselor at Camp Twin Lakes, where I supported teenage girls with medical conditions while promoting independence, confidence, and positive social experiences. These experiences have strengthened my passion for service and my desire to make a positive impact in the lives of children and families.

Personal Life

Outside of my academic and professional experiences, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, being involved in my community, and attending Auburn sporting events. I am passionate about child development, pediatric healthcare, and finding meaningful ways to support children and families during challenging experiences. I look forward to continuing to grow personally and professionally throughout my graduate studies at Auburn University.