Child Life Specialist PRN/ variable shift - Kalamazoo

Bronson Healthcare • Kalamazoo, MI

14d • Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• 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.

Nice To Haves

• 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.

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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level