Description

Job Summary

The Child Life Resident Program is a structured, one-year training initiative designed to elevate the intern experience through a comprehensive educational framework. The program consists of two phases: an initial 600-hour internship under the supervision of the Child Life Academic Supervisor and Certified Child Life Specialist preceptors, followed by an independent practice phase within a designated unit, supported by the Child Life team. This progression allows residents to refine their skills and transition into the role of a professional Child Life Specialist.

Throughout the residency, participants collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop individualized care plans, adhering to the professional standards set by the Child Life Certification Commission. Successful completion of the program, along with certification, qualifies residents for promotion to Level 1 Certified Child Life Specialist.

Job Specific Duties

• During the first 600 hours of internship, under the oversight of the rotation preceptor and Child Life Academic Supervisor, the intern will assist the patient and family in their adjustment to the hospital, diagnosis, and/or treatment plan. After completing the 600-hour internship, the employee will have autonomy in providing Child Life services and will be mentored by the Child Life Assistant Manager. 
• Provides pre/post procedural and surgical teachings to patient and family. 
• Offers emotional support, developmentally appropriate play activities, distraction and support during painful procedures, and engages in medical play to enhance patient understanding. 
• Covers caseload thoroughly and prioritizes patients based on the Child Life Council's guidelines for the standard of care; plans & organizes daily routine; meets deadlines for assigned projects. 
• Develops a productive work environment that incorporates volunteers into daily programming through delegating, valuing input, empowering, and providing feedback. 
• Establishes and maintains a healthy, balanced, and therapeutic relationship with the patient and family within the integrated healthcare system based on their needs. 
• Identifies & addresses the learning needs for patients/families; identifies inhibitors to learning process & readiness to learn; adjusts teaching strategies based on age, ethnic & gender issues. 
• Interacts in a cooperative manner within the healthcare team to support and contribute to the shared patient/family focused care goals through professional communications techniques. 
• Utilizes a clinical decision-making process and critical thinking to effectively deliver patient care with all healthcare providers across the continuum of care.
• Utilizes clinical decision making processes to achieve desired patient/family outcomes.
• Complete charts and documentation in a timely manner following the assessment and delivery of Child Life services. 

Qualifications

Minimum Job Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree Child Life, Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or related field by 6 months of hire.
• American Heart Association AED Maintain active and in good standing throughout employment.
• Previous experience working with children and families
• Completed eligibility through the Association of Child Life Professionals to apply for Child Life Internship

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Master's degree preferred.
• Able to demonstrate the knowledge and skill necessary to provide appropriate care to the age of the patients served on their assigned unit.

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