The role involves being a key member of the healthcare team, responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating programs designed to meet the non-medical specialized needs of hospitalized children and their families.
Minimum Education
A Bachelor's degree in child life, child development, or a related field is required. Candidates must have completed a 480-hour child life internship or fellowship. A Master's degree in child life studies is preferred.
Licensure, Registration and/or Certification
Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) certification is required or must be obtained within 1 year of employment.
Work Experience
0 - 1 year of experience in child development is required. Experience in a healthcare setting is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
Assess the individual needs of children and families to plan developmentally and therapeutically appropriate activities, making necessary changes to facilitate coping with the hospital environment.
Document child life assessments, observations, and recommendations for the plan of care and progress notes in the medical record.
Orient and supervise volunteers in their role in providing ongoing play and developmental activities.
Participate in marketing, public relations, and community-based activities related to children's health.
Support research and implementation of evidence-based practices.
Maintain educational and clinical expertise by reviewing professional materials, attending conferences and workshops, and networking with other child life programs.
Decision Making
Exercise independent judgment in making decisions involving non-routine problems under general supervision.
Working Relationships
Work directly with patients and/or customers.
Interact with internal customers via telephone or face-to-face communication.
Collaborate with other healthcare professionals and staff.