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  Child Life: A Very Cool Profession

Introduction

Using their knowledge of growth and development, Child Life Specialists aim to minimize the psychosocial trauma that can exist as a result of hospital experiences.  The Child Life Specialists try to make a stay in the hospital as normal as possible. They do this by providing crafts, games, therapeutic play, special events, and other fun activities.

Education and Training

To become a Child Life Specialist, you need at least a bachelor's degree in Child Life, Child Development, Child and Family Studies, Human Ecology, Psychology, Education, or related field. After completion of course work, you must complete a 480 hour internship with a Child Life Specialist. After graduation and internship you will qualify to take the certification exam.  In order to get most jobs as a Child Life Specialist, you have to be certified.

Some Classes to  Consider Taking While You Are in High School (or early in college)
Sociology
Psychology
Health
Anatomy and Physiology
Health Careers/ Health professions
Child Development
Foreign Language (Especially Spanish)
Home Economics
Interpersonal Communications
Anything related to children
Anything related to health
Anything related to people skills
Anything related to world cultures
Anything related to diversity
Anything related to kids with illnesses/disabilities

• Write a paper explaining what Child Life Specialists do
• Write a paper telling why you are interested in the profession
• Create a skit depicting the interaction between a child life specialist and the patient
• Write a persuasive letter to a local hospital urging them to implement a child life program
• Hold a hospital day at your school to help young people combat medical fears
•  Invite a child life specialist to speak to your class
• Mentor a younger child (teen) who is about to undergo a medical experience

 

Qualities That Will Help You on the Job

• Like kids
• Knowledge of foreign language
• Enjoy helping people
• Interest in healthcare
• Enjoy doing crafts
• Good organizational skills
• Enjoy planning events
• Like working on a team
• Ability to empathize
• Enjoy talking to people
• Enjoy playing with kids
• Like learning about medical procedures
• Ability to be in the room during procedures
• Volunteering at a hospital in high school or college

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