Child Life Specialist

Child Life SpecialistThe Child Life Specialist promotes coping, growth and development for children, teens and young adults in the hospital environment. As a member of the care team, this position collaborates in care plans, procedures, diagnosis education, play, coping support, and referrals to community services. This position practices in alignment with current principles and practices of the Association of Child Life Professionals.Responsibilities:Facilitates procedural and surgical preparation and supportProvides medical play opportunities to promote desensitization and developmentally appropriate understanding for patients and family membersProvides therapeutic play opportunities for patients and siblings in the playroom, at bedside and in patient care areas.Utilizes appropriate tools to implement diagnosis education for patients and family membersCreates and implements a developmentally appropriate plan for the facilitation of therapeutic interventionsPrepares siblings and children/visitors for visitation and anticipated events related to treatmentProvides sibling support and therapeutic interventions for continued coping and normal growthProvides legacy building and bereavement supportCoordinates and initiates involvement or referrals in appropriate community activities or resources/supportDevelops and maintains effective working relationships with members of the healthcare team to meet care plan goals. Provides interdisciplinary team member education on utilization of services and developmentally appropriate careDocuments patient's developmental needs, coping and plan to facilitate mastery in patient medical records and recognize subtle changes in patient psychosocial assessmentContinues to develop self-reflective capacity and incorporates feedback into daily practiceEngages in promotion of hospital-based priorities and regulatory readiness through committees, unit-based work groups and departmental efforts to maintain high level of care.Provides education for hospital team members and community regarding child development, unique needs of pediatric patients, ways to engage patients to allow for most successful coping strategies.Collaborates with camp program to organize and facilitate camp activities including weeklong and weekend camps for patients and familiesSupport student programming through supervising interns, practicum and community based studentsCollaborates with special events program coordinator to facilitate events for patients in the hospital and in the communityEducation:Four-year Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience ReqCompletion of Child Life Internship ReqLicenses and Certifications:Certified Child Life Specialist within 18 months of hire ReqA Place Where You BelongWe put our people first. We welcome, value, and respect the beliefs, identities and experiences of our patients and colleagues. We are committed to delivering culturally effective care, creating meaningful partnerships in the communities we serve, and equipping and developing our team members to make Children's Health a place where everyone can contribute.Holistic Benefits – How We'll Care for You:Employee portion of medical plan premiums are covered after 3 years.4%-10% employee savings plan match based on tenurePaid Parental Leave (up to 12 weeks)Caregiver LeaveAdoption and surrogacy reimbursement