Child Life Specialist

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Position Summary:

Provides psychosocially and developmentally based assessment and support to both patients and their families in the Neo-Natal Intensive Care. Plans and provides emotionally and developmentally appropriate play and other experiences to promote effective coping with health care experiences and continued cognitive and emotional growth. Enhances quality of patient care through participation, documentation and communication with other members of the health care team. Teaches, supervises and evaluates work of volunteers and Child Life interns. Serves as a resource and advocate on child development issues.

Education:

A Bachelor's Degree, Master's preferred, in Child Development, Human Development, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, Child Life, or related field, and completion of a Child Life internship of 600 hours.

Work Experience:

Completion of a Child Life internship. One year job experience or a Master's degree with some work experience preferred.

Licensure/Certification:

Certification at the professional level through the Association of Child Life Professionals must be acquired within the first year of employment.

Knowledge/Skills:

• A professional level of knowledge of theoretical foundations of child life practice (child development, play, stress and coping, family systems, and patient and family centered care.)
• Knowledge and skill in growth and development, therapeutic play, psychological preparation, provision of coping strategies and support during medical events.
• Knowledge of medical terminology and its implications acquired through academic program and clinical internship.
• Knowledge of trauma informed care framework and application in child life practice
• Knowledge of the Association of Child Life Professionals Code of Ethics.
• Familiarity with hospital/departmental policies and procedures normally acquired through one to three months on-the-job experience.
• Ability to (1) assess patient/family psychosocial and developmental strengths and risks, (2) plan goals, (3) implement interventions, and (4) evaluate effectiveness of assessment, plans and interventions.
• Ability to facilitate a variety of group and individual play and therapeutic activities that promote development, self-expression, and mastery up to eighty percent of the work day
• Documentation and written communication skills, usually acquired through academic preparation and 600 hr clinical internship.
• Effective verbal communication and public speaking skills.
• Emerging supervisory skills.
• Demonstrates dedication to support diversity, equity and inclusion within organizational role.
• Time management and organizational skills.