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What does a Child Life Specialist do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A Child Life Specialist is a health care professional who works with children and families in hospitals and other health care settings. They provide emotional support and practical help to children and families who are dealing with illness, injury, or medical procedures. Child Life Specialists use play, art, and other activities to help children cope with their experiences.

Child Life Specialist job duties include:

  • Helping children and families cope with the stress and anxiety of hospitalization
  • Providing developmentally appropriate play and educational activities for children
  • Assisting with medical procedures and treatments
  • Promoting positive coping skills and resilience
  • Supporting families during times of crisis
  • Educating families about child development and normal growth and development
  • Advocating for the needs of children and families
  • Collaborating with other members of the healthcare team
  • Planning and implementing special events and programs for children and families
  • Maintaining documentation and records

Child Life Specialist Job Requirements

A Child Life Specialist is a health care professional who works with children and families in hospitals or other health care settings. They help children and families cope with the stress and anxiety of illness, injury, and hospitalization. Child Life Specialists have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in child life or a related field. They must also complete a child life internship and pass a national certification exam. Many Child Life Specialists have previous experience working with children in healthcare or other settings.

Child Life Specialist Skills

  • Patience
  • Creativity
  • Organization
  • Communication
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Advocacy
  • Emotional Support
  • Child Development
  • Play Therapy
  • Behavior Management
  • Family Support
  • Bereavement Support

Related: Top Child Life Specialist Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Child Life Specialist

A Child Life Specialist is a professional who helps children and families cope with the challenges of hospitalization, illness, and disability. Child Life Specialists use their knowledge of child development and psychology to provide age-appropriate support and interventions that promote healing and resilience.

To become a Child Life Specialist, one must first earn a bachelor’s degree in child life or a related field such as child development, psychology, or human development. Many Child Life Specialist positions also require certification from the Association of Child Life Professionals. After completing the necessary education and training requirements, Child Life Specialists can find employment in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, and other settings.

Child Life Specialists make a difference in the lives of children and families every day. They provide comfort and support during times of stress and illness, and help children to develop the skills they need to cope with challenging situations. If you are interested in making a difference in the lives of others, consider becoming a Child Life Specialist.

Related: Child Life Specialist Resume Example

Related: Child Life Specialist Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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