Child Life Specialist -PRN/Variable Shift- Kalamazoo The Child Life Specialist is responsible for developing, implementing, and assessing a comprehensive Child Life Program that promotes the developmental well-being of children, adolescents, and their families. This role focuses on minimizing psychological trauma during medical treatments and maintaining normal living patterns. As a key member of the healthcare team, the Child Life Specialist fosters an environment that encourages mastery through play, learning, self-expression, family involvement, and peer interaction. They are responsible for addressing both the psychosocial and developmental needs of patients, ensuring continuity of care, and coordinating services with the healthcare team.
Location: Kalamazoo-252 E Lovell St.-Lovell Building (North Campus)
Shift: Variable
Time Type: Part time Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40 Cost Center: 6450 General Pediatrics Unit (BMH)
Required Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Education, Child Development, Child Life, or a related field. Internship: Completed an internship under the supervision of a certified Child Life Specialist.
Certification:
Eligible for Professional Child Life Certification upon hire; Certification from the Child Life Certification Commission (CLCC) as a Certified Child Life Specialist within 18 months of hire. A minimum of two attempts to pass the exam are required within the first year of hire.
Technical Skills:
Proficiency in basic computer skills and familiarity with computerized patient charting systems.
Medical Knowledge: Working knowledge of medical terminology, diagnoses, tests, and procedures relevant to pediatric care.
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
Customer Service: Demonstrates a commitment to exceptional customer service, providing compassionate, responsive care to patients and families.
Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking: Ability to effectively assess patient needs and apply critical thinking to provide appropriate interventions.
Key Responsibilities:
Program Planning & Implementation: Design and provide developmentally appropriate experiences to support the cognitive, emotional, and social growth of children and adolescents.
Patient & Family Support: Assist in medical and psychosocial preparation for hospitalization and medical procedures, ensuring patients and families are informed and prepared.
Developmental Play Environment: Create and maintain a playroom and environment that fosters healthy play, growth, and development, including interactive materials such as bulletin boards.
Team Collaboration: Work closely with other healthcare professionals to address the psychosocial needs of pediatric and adolescent patients, ensuring comprehensive and coordinated care.
Communication: Provide clear, effective verbal and written communication to patients, families, and healthcare teams. Tailor communication to suit the understanding of various age groups and backgrounds.
Data Collection & Reporting: Gather, document, and report relevant data regarding the developmental and psychosocial status of patients.
Supervision & Mentorship: Support and guide students and volunteers involved in the Child Life Program, providing mentorship and oversight.
Physical Demands:
Requires frequent standing and walking, with occasional lifting of light objects (20 pounds or less).Involves assisting in lifting and moving patients, which may require physical exertion and minor straining positions. Regular attention to a computer or CRT, leading to mental/visual fatigue during administrative tasks (up to 40% of work time).
Work Environment:- Dynamic and fast-paced, requiring effective multitasking and the ability to meet urgent deadlines.
- Involves collaboration with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to ensure the well-being and development of pediatric patients and their families.
- Additional Skills:
- Demonstrates proficiency in interviewing, problem-solving, and providing critical support to meet the needs of pediatric patients and their families.
- Ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances and maintain a positive, supportive attitude.
