Tthe Child Life Specialist I will utilize a family centered care approach in assuring that the psychosocial needs of the patients and families are met. The incumbent facilitates therapeutic play, coping techniques, psychological preparation, procedural support, and clinical education regarding health care experiences. This position promotes the optimum development of the patients through therapeutic individual and group activities.

1. Facilitates the orientation, adjustment, and ongoing support of patients and caregivers to the hospital, health care experiences, illness or disability.
2. Provides medical procedure preparation, support, and accompaniment whenever necessary to support the patient and/or caregivers.
3. Communicates and documents patient and caregiver interventions as appropriate.
4. Provides activities and interventions in group and individual settings to help children and caregivers cope with medical situations and meet their developmental, emotional and cultural needs.
5. Models developmentally appropriate interactions for patients, caregivers and staff.
6. Maintains a safe, therapeutic milieu in all patient areas and sustains appropriate professional boundaries with patients, caregivers and staff.
7. Attends and actively participates in interdisciplinary and departmental meetings and/or in-service education as assigned and advocates for the diverse needs of the patients and caregivers.
8. Provides supervision for child life students and volunteers
9. Interprets the mission, goals and philosophical base of the department, professional group, and/or Institute whenever necessary.

10. Maintains quality and effectiveness of patient services through implementation of and compliance with all departmental and/or Institute policies and procedures, PI activities, and yearly program assessment.

• Bachelor’s degree in Child Life, Child Development or related field required.

• One year experience in a child life program and hospital setting preferred.