Child Life Specialist
Job Summary
The Child Life Specialist is responsible for implementing a psychosocially and developmentally supportive program for children and families. Child Life Specialist is a member of the pediatric health care team who focuses on the emotional and developmental needs of children using therapeutic and developmental play experiences which help children and families maintain normal life patterns; prevent significant developmental disruption; and mitigate psychological distress through their health care experience. The Child Life Specialist provides appropriate guidance for volunteers, students and visiting groups. Child Life Specialist acts as an advocate for children and their families with the hospital and uses their knowledge of child development to enhance the hospital environment for pediatric patients.
Responsibilities
- Focus on the emotional and developmental needs of children using therapeutic and developmental play experiences
- Prevents significant developmental disruption and mitigates psychological distress through the child’s health care experience
- Acts as an advocate for children and their families and uses knowledge of child development to enhance the environment for pediatric patients
- Origins, develops, or implements new methods to accomplish objectives by meeting the needs of the customers
- Works with team members to improve customer satisfaction and maximize results within the department
- Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability to work process change, makes decisions and takes appropriate actions to solve problems
Qualifications
- Education Required: Bachelor's degree in Child Development, Psychology or Social Work
- Experience Required: 2 years as Child Life Specialist
- Certifications Required: Child Life Specialist (CCLS)