The aim of the present study was to analyze the interactions between hospitalized children and a psychologist at psycho-educational attendance. Twenty two observations were done about the attendance promoted by a psychologist with children at pediatric ward, during a period of seven months. One hundred and two children participated in this study. The verbalizations were recorded; motor behavior and performed activities were registered. The results showed that the psychologist began more interactions than children and promoted stimulation for interactions between them. The verbalizations about psycho-educational activities were more frequent than other ones. The psychologist involved the child in the activities, instructing, giving orientations and talking about it. Low percentage of verbalizations about hospitalization was found. In spite of children being sick and hospitalized, they participated actively and interacted in playing and learning situations. These findings show the relevance of this kind of activities for promoting the children's development in the hospital context.
hospitalized children; interaction; psycho-educational attendance
