NORWALK–Children in Norwalk, Darien, New Canaan, Wilton, Weston and Westport have a new, kid-oriented center for medical emergencies in the Cohen Pediatric Emergency Center, part of Northwell Health’s Norwalk Hospital.

Located within the hospital’s Bauer Emergency Care Center at 34 Maple St., Norwalk, the children’s area was created with a $1.74 million grant from the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation, the hospital said.

The Cohen center, which has been operating since October, includes seven emergency rooms remodeled with pediatric equipment and large murals of marine life – seals, rays, a sea turtle and more – added in a partnership with the Marine Aquarium at Norwalk. The center offers expanded health resources, such as a child life specialist from Connecticut Children’s, a regional health system dedicated to young patients, trained to provide therapeutic play, education and reassurance.

It also includes a new kid-friendly waiting area with toys, books and a fish tank.

“The opening of the Cohen Pediatric Emergency Center marks a transformative moment for Norwalk Hospital and the families we serve,” said Norwalk Hospital President Peter R. Cordeau. “This center brings world-class pediatric emergency care closer to home, ensuring children in our community receive the highest level of specialized treatment in moments when it matters most.”

The Cohen Pediatric Emergency Center will also provide care for kids needing short observational stays, from 24 to 48 hours, for common illnesses such as asthma, croup and dehydration, according to the hospital.

For follow-up care, the center provides children in southwestern Fairfield County with access to more than 20 pediatric specialties through Connecticut Children’s, the hospital said.

The center is staffed with specialists seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Outside of those hours, the Bauer center will continue to provide pediatric care around the clock.

“We are so proud and very grateful to receive support from the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation to expand access, elevate care and strengthen our commitment to the health and well-being of every child who comes through our doors,” Cordeau said.