Child Life Specialist

Join Cleveland Clinic’s Main Campus where research and surgery are advanced, technology is leading-edge, patient care is world class and caregivers are family. Here, you will work alongside a passionate and dedicated team, receive endless support and appreciation, and build a rewarding career with one of the most respected healthcare organizations in the world.

As a Child Life Specialist, you will be working with patients and families to communicate with our interdisciplinary team, child life team and other patients/families. This role is highly valued by the multidisciplinary surgery teams. The role of child life is important for patients undergoing surgery and helps to improve their patient experience, reduce fears and increase coping. Caregivers in this department professionally develop through group education opportunities and can attend national child-life conferences. The work culture in this department is positive and communication is clear between all team members. You will be supported by leadership and encouraged in your professional development.

A caregiver in this position works7:00am—9:00pm or 10:00am—10:30pm. Will float between Hillcrest and Fairview hospitals. May also work at a FHC to assist.

A caregiver who excels in this role will: 

• Assess the developmental, social, and physical needs of an assigned pediatric population and provide appropriate interventions, such as preparations and therapeutic play.

• Assess and document patient's developmental level, emotional state, utilizes hospitalization and procedures using informal assessment techniques throughout the hospital stay.

• Provide education, preparation, and therapeutic intervention for medical events to help children and families cope based on developmental and emotional level.

• Assist patients and families with relaxation techniques to decrease stress, increase coping skills, and cooperation during tests and procedures.

• Provide diversional activities in the playroom/activity room and bedside based on individual capabilities and needs.

• Provide education and information to enhance parental understanding of hospital system and resources.

• Participate in psychosocial, interdisciplinary, and/or departmental team meetings and communicatesdevelopmental and psychosocial needs of children.

• Organize and manage dedicated events, special guests, support groups and other regularly scheduled events.

• Participate in the orientation, direction, and development of Children's Hospital volunteers.

• Supervise Practicum/Internship students as a Certified Child Life Specialist.

• Manage play materials, supplies, and equipment for playrooms by assuming responsibility for its cleanliness and storage; maintains inventory of both donated and purchased goods.

• Represent the Child Life program in appropriate Children Hospital's committees.

Minimum qualifications for the ideal future caregiver include: 

• Bachelor's Degree in ChildLife or child development related field

• Must have completed an approved Child Life Internship, at least 600 hours, directed by a Certified Child Life Specialist

• Child life specialists must have or earn professional certification (CCLS) through the Child Life Council within a year of appointment and maintain certification throughout their employment

• Must sit for exam at least annually until certification obtained

• An extension may be granted by Child Life Manager under appropriate circumstances

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification through the American Heart Association (AHA) or the American Red Cross within one year of hire

Preferred qualifications for the ideal future caregiver include: 

• Two years and 4000 hours of professional Child Life clinical experience in a hospital setting