Craniofacial and Pediatric Plastic Surgery

We know the anxiety families must feel when a newborn or child needs plastic surgery for craniofacial, cleft or similar pediatric conditions. However, learning all you can about these conditions can help you understand your child's situation and enable you to ask your doctor about any new developments in treatment. The following links provide the latest information on these important topics:

• Children's Craniofacial Association
• Cleft Palate Foundation
• American Cleft Palate- Craniofacial Association

Virtual Surgery Simulators:

• The Smile Train Virtual Surgery Simulator
• my Face - Craniofacial Virtual Surgery Simulator

Facebook Support Groups:

• Arkansas Craniofacial, Cleft & Pediatric Plastic Surgery 
• Arkansas Family Cleft Support 
• Craniofacial Support Group of Arkansas

Camp Laughter

In honor of National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness Month, Arkansas Children's hosts this annual event at Camp Aldersgate. The event typically lasts one-day and is for kids ages 5-18 with cleft and craniofacial differences. It's a free camp designed for families to connect with other families who are going through similar situations. 

What is the mission/purpose of Camp Laughter? It’s a bonding time for parents and kids. Plus, it’s a place without any judgment, just FUN! Parents can meet other parents and discuss feelings and/or thoughts they have and be understood. Kids can meet other kids who look similar and feel included and welcome. It is a camp just for them! They are also able to interact with their cleft/craniofacial team specialists, which allows each child to see them as an everyday person and not just someone they associate with clinic visits and surgeries, therefore decreasing fear and anxiety with upcoming care.

What type of activities can campers expect? Kids start the day by participating in crafts, followed by a tribe meeting. They then break up into four groups for activities such as fishing, sling shot art, leather stamping and a petting zoo. They will finish the day with swimming, followed by an ice cream party and talent show.

How does Camp Laughter help kids understand their cleft or craniofacial differences? Camp empowers them to be happy and proud of who they are and allows them to know they are not alone. It also allows them to be reminded that having a cleft or craniofacial difference does not slow them down but they can achieve anything they set their minds to!

For more information, contact camplaughter@archildrens.org.