When you’re planning a visit to Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, whether for yourself or a loved one, understanding the local time zone is a key detail for smooth scheduling and travel. Oklahoma operates on Central Time, but it’s not always that simple! Let’s break down what you need to know about Oklahoma’s time zone, and how Oklahoma Children’s Hospital provides a welcoming and supportive environment for families regardless of where they’re traveling from.
Oklahoma, geographically located in the central United States, primarily observes Central Standard Time (CST) during the fall and winter months. This time zone is 6 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-6). However, like most of the United States, Oklahoma switches to Central Daylight Time (CDT) during the spring and summer for daylight saving time. During CDT, from March to November, Oklahoma is 5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5).
It’s important to note that while the entire state of Oklahoma is in the Central Time Zone, there can be slight variations to be aware of, especially when coordinating with individuals or services in other time zones. For families coming from different time zones to Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, understanding this time difference is crucial for scheduling appointments, coordinating travel logistics, and simply staying in sync with hospital staff and schedules.
At Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, patient and family comfort is a top priority. Recognizing that families may be traveling from various time zones and experiencing the stress of medical situations, the hospital offers resources like The Zone, a 6,000-square-foot play-and-learning space. This haven, located on the 6th floor of the hospital, provides a vital space for children and families to relax, play, and engage in therapeutic activities, helping them adjust and cope regardless of time zone changes or the challenges of hospitalization.
The Zone is equipped with a variety of areas designed to cater to different age groups and interests, including:
- Children’s play space: A vibrant area for younger children to engage in imaginative play.
- Teen space: A dedicated area where teenagers can relax and connect.
- Infant and toddler play area: A safe and stimulating environment for the youngest patients.
- Dedicated therapeutic music space: Utilizing the power of music for healing and relaxation.
- STEM and innovation area: Encouraging learning and exploration in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Within The Zone, families can access a range of activities designed for fun, education, and therapy. From interactive play and electronic gaming to books and musical instruments, there’s something to help every child and sibling cope with illness and hospitalization. Oklahoma Children’s Hospital even provides “In the Zone TV” (ITZTV) on Channel 90, a closed-circuit television program specifically created for young patients who are unable to leave their rooms, ensuring that even those confined to their beds can benefit from the engaging content.
Oklahoma Children’s Hospital and The Zone are made possible through the generous support of various benefactors, including Garth Brooks’ Teammates for Kids Foundation, the Bob Moore family, Junior League of Oklahoma City, and Children’s Hospital Volunteers. Their contributions underscore the community’s commitment to providing exceptional care and support to children and families in Oklahoma, regardless of where they call home or what time zone they’re accustomed to.
If you’re looking for ways to contribute to this valuable resource, consider volunteering your time and energy. By supporting Oklahoma Children’s Hospital and The Zone, you can help ensure that all families have access to a comforting and enriching environment during challenging times. Contact Child Life specialists at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital to discover how you can get involved and make a positive impact on the lives of hospitalized children and their families. Knowing What Time Zone Oklahoma is in is just the first step in planning your visit – the welcoming atmosphere and supportive resources at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital await to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
