Child Life Specialist - Emergency Department 36 hours weekly/ 12D- Kalamazoo

Bronson Healthcare Group•Kalamazoo, MI

27d•Onsite

About The Position

The Child Life Specialist develops, implements, and assesses a comprehensive Child Life Program that promotes the developmental well-being of children, adolescents, and their families. The role aims to minimize psychological trauma during medical treatments and maintain normal living patterns. As a member of the healthcare team, the specialist fosters mastery through play, learning, self-expression, family involvement, and peer interaction. The position addresses patients’ psychosocial and developmental needs, supports continuity of care, and coordinates services with the healthcare team. This is a full-time position in the Emergency Department at Bronson Methodist Hospital South Campus in Kalamazoo. The schedule is 36 hours per week on 12-hour day shifts.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Education, Child Development, Child Life, or a related field.
Completed an internship under the supervision of a certified Child Life Specialist.
Eligible for Professional Child Life Certification upon hire; certification is required within one year of employment.
Proficiency in basic computer skills and familiarity with computerized patient charting systems.
Working knowledge of medical terminology, diagnoses, tests, and procedures relevant to pediatric care.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
Commitment to exceptional customer service and compassionate, responsive care for patients and families.
Ability to assess patient needs and apply problem-solving and critical thinking to provide appropriate interventions.
Proficiency in interviewing and providing critical support to pediatric patients and their families.
Ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances and maintain a positive, supportive attitude.

Responsibilities

Design and provide developmentally appropriate experiences that support the cognitive, emotional, and social growth of children and adolescents.
Assist patients and families with medical and psychosocial preparation for hospitalization and medical procedures.
Create and maintain a playroom and environment that fosters healthy play, growth, and development, including interactive materials such as bulletin boards.
Collaborate with healthcare professionals to address pediatric and adolescent patients’ psychosocial needs and ensure coordinated care.
Communicate clearly with patients, families, and healthcare teams, adapting communication to different age groups and backgrounds.
Gather, document, and report relevant information about patients’ developmental and psychosocial status.
Support, guide, and mentor students and volunteers involved in the Child Life Program.