Nationwide, hospitals are hiring child-life specialists, who must earn an undergraduate degree in child development, complete a 480-hour internship and take a national exam to become certified.

In 2001, the American Academy of Pediatrics even issued a policy statement that urged doctors to relieve needless suffering by helping children better anticipate and assess pain, creating soothing environments and getting parents more involved.

"I really see it as a vital service," Draper said. "It really makes a difference for (children)."

Denny's mother, Naomi, said the various activities made what could have been a torturous experience into a fun stay for her daughter.

Now, if her daughter has to return to the hospital, Naomi Denny said she doesn't think it will be so scary.

"It really got her mind off of (her pain)," Naomi Denny said. "It's really helped her. There's hardly a moment when they don't have an activity for her."

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E-mail: lwarner@desnews.com