Text copied to clipboard!
Title
Text copied to clipboard!Child Life Specialist
Description
Text copied to clipboard!
We are looking for a compassionate and dedicated Child Life Specialist to join our healthcare team. As a Child Life Specialist, you will play a vital role in supporting children and their families as they navigate the emotional and psychological challenges associated with hospitalization, illness, and medical procedures. Your primary responsibility will be to help reduce stress and anxiety in pediatric patients by using developmentally appropriate education, play, and therapeutic techniques.
In this role, you will collaborate closely with doctors, nurses, social workers, and other healthcare professionals to create a supportive and child-friendly environment. You will assess the needs of each child and develop individualized care plans that promote coping and emotional well-being. Your work will involve preparing children for medical procedures, providing emotional support during treatments, and facilitating therapeutic play sessions to help children express their feelings and understand their experiences.
You will also serve as a resource for families, offering guidance and support to help them understand their child’s condition and treatment plan. Educating parents and caregivers on how to support their child’s emotional needs is a key component of this role. Additionally, you may be involved in organizing special events, activities, and support groups that enhance the hospital experience for pediatric patients.
To succeed in this position, you should have a strong background in child development, psychology, or a related field, along with certification as a Child Life Specialist (CCLS). Excellent communication skills, empathy, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, emotionally demanding environment are essential.
This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who is passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of children and families during challenging times. If you are committed to providing compassionate care and emotional support to pediatric patients, we encourage you to apply.
Responsibilities
Text copied to clipboard!- Provide emotional support to children and families in medical settings
- Use play and therapeutic activities to help children cope with hospitalization
- Prepare children for medical procedures using age-appropriate language and tools
- Collaborate with healthcare professionals to develop care plans
- Educate families about child development and coping strategies
- Facilitate support groups and special events for pediatric patients
- Document patient interactions and progress
- Advocate for the psychosocial needs of pediatric patients
- Develop and implement individualized care plans
- Support siblings and family members during hospitalization
Requirements
Text copied to clipboard!- Bachelor’s degree in Child Life, Child Development, Psychology, or related field
- Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) credential
- Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in a pediatric healthcare setting
- Strong understanding of child development and family dynamics
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team
- Empathy, patience, and emotional resilience
- Knowledge of medical terminology and hospital procedures
- Experience with therapeutic play techniques
- CPR and First Aid certification preferred
Potential interview questions
Text copied to clipboard!- Do you hold a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) credential?
- Describe your experience working with children in a healthcare setting.
- How do you prepare a child for a medical procedure?
- What therapeutic techniques do you use to support pediatric patients?
- How do you handle emotionally challenging situations with families?
- Can you provide an example of a successful care plan you developed?
- How do you collaborate with medical staff in your current or past roles?
- What strategies do you use to support siblings of hospitalized children?
- Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced hospital environment?
- What motivates you to work as a Child Life Specialist?
