TLC for Kids is a unique, nationally registered, Melbourne-based charity that provides immediate distraction and practical or emotional support to sick children and their families during critical times of crisis and hardship.

Since 1998, TLC for Kids has provided practical and emotional support to sick children and their families during stressful and traumatic situations. Hospitals across Australia have utilised their services over 15 million times and counting. Whether it’s a brief hospital visit or a prolonged illness, TLC for Kids plays a vital role in the extended support network for sick children. TLC for Kids provides collaborative care and utilises positive distraction techniques to offer assistance and comfort during these challenging times.

Partnered with over 400 hospitals across Australia and New Zealand, TLC for Kids is one of Australia’s most inclusive, trusted, and far-reaching charities. They take pride in the relationships cultivated with their healthcare professionals, ensuring that any child referred to them with any illness or health condition, from newborn to 21 years of age, receives support when needed.

Founded by Tim Conolan AM and Ana Darras AM, TLC for Kids was born to recognise children fallingthrough the gaps in existingservices. Tim and Ana have been honoured with the prestigious appointment as Members of the Order of Australia (AM). Tim was further recognised as the 2014 Australian of the Year Local Hero for his unwavering dedication.

With four unique services, TLC for Kids’ mission remains steadfast in bringing smiles back to the faces of sick children and their families. The four services are the TLC Distraction Box Program, RAPID TLC, TLC Ambulance, and Tap 2 Distract.

1. The TLC Distraction™ Box Program equips nurses and healthcare professionals with effective tools and toys for comforting young children during uncomfortable examinations and procedures.
2. The RAPID TLC Service is the fastest referral system of its kind in Australia for healthcare professionals seeking emotional and practical support for sick children and their families. Upon referral from a healthcare worker, the Rapid TLC Service provides timely support to alleviate the burden and ease the strain on children and their families.
3. The TLC Ambulance provides an immersive and engaging experience that differentiates it from other patient transport vehicles. It offers a special day out for children in palliative care and their families, allowing them to visit their most treasured destinations.
4. Building on the proven distraction principles learned by the TLC Distraction Boxes, TLC for Kids developed a digital distraction app called Tap 2 Distract. Each game’s specific purpose is to help distract and reduce a child’s fear during a medical procedure, immunisation, or any form of stress or discomfort.

TLC for Kids’ commitment is to ensure that no child slips through the cracks in healthcare support regardless of their medical, emotional, or practical needs. TLC for Kids is dedicated to expanding its reach to meet the growing demand for specialised services within the healthcare system.

To find out more about TLC for Kids, visit tlcforkids.org.au