Certified Child Life Specialist - Pediatric Emergency & Inpatient Services

Certified Child Life Specialist - Pediatric Emergency & Inpatient ServicesThe Child Life Specialist (CLS) is an integral member of the pediatric healthcare team who provides developmentally appropriate psychosocial care to infants, children, adolescents, and their families in the Pediatric Emergency Department and inpatient pediatric units. The CLS promotes coping, reduces fear and anxiety, and supports optimal adjustment to illness, injury, and hospitalization through evidence based child life interventions.

This role supports a mixed acuity pediatric environment, including emergency care, observation, inpatient, and intermediate care levels, and collaborates closely with physicians, nurses, social work, child protective services, and ancillary staff.

and ResponsibilitiesPatient & Family SupportProvide developmentally appropriate preparation, education, and emotional support to pediatric patients and their families during emergency department visits, hospitalizations, procedures, and transitions of care. Utilize therapeutic and medical play, coping strategies, and normalization activities to reduce stress, fear, and trauma. Support children and families during invasive procedures, acute illness, injury, and resuscitation events, as appropriate.

Assess psychosocial and developmental needs and tailor interventions based on age, diagnosis, cultural background, and family dynamics. Procedural SupportOffer procedural preparation and support for interventions such as IV starts, imaging, wound care, sedation, and surgical procedures. Collaborate with nursing and medical staff to promote trauma‑informed, family‑centered care.

Coach patients in coping techniques (e.g., distraction, guided imagery, breathing). Family-Centered & Trauma‑Informed CareProvide support and education to caregivers, including siblings of hospitalized children. Assist families during emotionally difficult situations such as unexpected diagnoses, critical illness, or prolonged hospital stays.

Support bereavement and end‑of‑life situations in coordination with interdisciplinary teams as needed. Interdisciplinary CollaborationParticipate in multidisciplinary rounds and communicate psychosocial needs to the care team. Collaborate with nursing, physicians, social work, case management, chaplaincy, and behavioral health services.

Advocate for pediatric‑friendly environments and practices within the ED and inpatient units. Simulation, Education, & Program DevelopmentParticipate in pediatric simulation activities by assisting with realism, family role‑play, and developmental context. Educate staff, students, and volunteers on child development, coping strategies, and family‑centered care principles.

Assist in developing age‑appropriate educational materials and programming for pediatric patients. Documentation & QualityDocument child life interventions and assessments in the electronic medical record (Epic). Participate in quality improvement initiatives related to patient experience, pediatric trauma reduction, and family satisfaction.

Track metrics and outcomes related to child life services as requested for program evaluation or grant reporting. QualificationsRequiredBachelor’s degree in Child Life, Child Development, Psychology, or a closely related fieldCompletion of a Child Life Internship (minimum 480 hours) in an acute care pediatric settingCertified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) credential or eligibility to sit for the certification examAbility to work effectively in a fast‑paced Pediatric Emergency DepartmentStrong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skillsPreferredMaster’s degree in Child Life or related fieldExperience working in pediatric emergency medicine, inpatient pediatrics, or trauma settingsExperience with simulation, trauma‑informed care, or high‑acuity pediatric patientsACLS/PALS or willingness to obtain per hospital policyPhysical & Emotional DemandsAbility to stand, walk, and move throughout clinical areas for extended periodsOccasional lifting of toys, equipment, or suppliesEmotional resilience when supporting patients and families during medical crises, trauma, or lossWork ScheduleSchedule may include days, evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on clinical needsCoverage shared between the Pediatric Emergency Department and inpatient pediatric unitsCore CompetenciesFamily‑centered careTrauma‑informed careCultural sensitivityCrisis interventionInterdisciplinary collaborationPediatric development expertise