Child Life Specialist

About the role

Under general supervision, provides child life services for ambulatory and inpatient children and their families. Administers programs and provides services that reduce distress, increase adaptive coping and protect and enhance developmental integrity by offering opportunities to play, learn and interact with others in an emotionally and physically safe environment.

Responsibilities

• Plans and implements a therapeutic play program to help hospitalized and ambulatory patients to adjust to the health care experience. Utilizes therapeutic play techniques, assessments and observations as diagnostic and treatment tools. Documents treatment plans, goals and observations.
• Assists in preparing and orienting children and families for diagnostic and treatment procedures using developmentally appropriate methods. Provides support and helps facilitate coping through stress reduction techniques.
• Provides information, education and support to patients and families on issues pertaining to hospitalization, illness, medical experiences and growth and development. Supports family bonds and utilizes family and cultural strengths to provide consistent and quality care for children.
• Participates as a member of the interdisciplinary treatment team through program planning and team meetings in order to provide services in a holistic manner. Consults with other team members regarding the developmental status and individual needs of children to promote adaptation to treatment.
• Presents educational programs to health care professionals and to the community regarding child health and development, the impact of illness, injury and hospitalization on children and families and parent education.
• Collaborates with other professionals regarding the psychosocial, emotional and environmental needs of the child to promote adaptation to hospitalization and treatment. Offers counsel specific to the impact of health care experiences.
• Provides guidance and training to child life students and volunteers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Child Life, Child Growth and Development, Recreational Therapy or related field.
• Eligible for certification as a Child Life Specialist by the Child Life Certification Commission.
• 600 hour internship experience including six weeks training in pediatrics preferred.

Skills

• Analytical ability to assess patient needs and develop and provide appropriate services.
• Interpersonal skills to work productively with patients, families, health care professionals and other members of the community.
• Technical knowledge related to the provision of Child Life services.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match
• Generous paid time off (PTO)
• Career development and continuing education opportunities
• Health savings accounts, healthcare dependent flexible spending accounts
• Employee Assistance program, Employee discount program
• Voluntary benefits include pet insurance, legal insurance, accident and critical illness insurance, long term care, elder childcare, auto & home insurance

Pay

Not specified in posting.

Schedule

Full Time, Day Shift