During EMS Week, a day is set aside to recognize the critical role EMS clinicians play in caring for children in emergencies.
EMS for Children (EMSC) Day, observed this year on May 21, honors providers who deliver specialized care to pediatric patients — whether managing a seizure, responding to trauma or comforting a scared child on scene. The day also highlights the work of the federal EMSC Program, which has spent the last 40 years improving emergency care for children across the country.
This year’s EMS Week theme, “We Care. For Everyone,” reflects the compassion and commitment EMS professionals bring to every call, and EMSC Day serves as a reminder that kids aren’t just small adults. Their care takes training, preparation and adaptability.
Two free webinars for EMS clinicians
To mark the occasion, EMSC is inviting EMS professionals to take part in two free educational webinars on Wednesday:
- 2–3 p.m. ET – “Federal Programs & Projects Supporting Pediatric Care,” hosted by NHTSA’s Office of EMS. The webinar will highlight national efforts to support pediatric care in EMS settings — from handling routine issues, to complex interventions like prehospital blood administration. Register here
- 5–6 p.m. ET – “Pediatric Prehospital Seizures: Evidence-Based Practice and Future Directions,” hosted by the EMSC Innovation and Improvement Center. Speakers will walk through the history of seizure care in EMS, current best practices, and what’s ahead. Participants attending the live session can earn free CE credit. Register here
Watch and share a message of gratitude
To help recognize EMS providers for the work they do every day, the EMSC Program has also released a short thank-you video spotlighting the importance of pediatric care and expressing appreciation for those who provide it.
From evidence-based education to simple words of gratitude, EMS for Children Day offers a moment to honor the providers who make a difference in the lives of kids and families — every shift, every call.
