Child Life Specialist, Child and Youth Therapeutic Services, CORE - BC Children's Hospital

BC Childrens Hospital; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

BC Children's Hospital is seeking a Child Life Specialist for its Child and Youth Therapeutic Services. This role supports the development of children and youth through assessments, care plans, and therapeutic activities. Applicants should be prepared to contribute to a culturally safe environment, addressing Indigenous health issues while working within an interdisciplinary healthcare team.

Benefits

Cultural safety training

Flexible work options

Health and professional development programs

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in relevant field.
• Eligibility for Child Life Certification Exam.
• Knowledge of social determinants of health.

Responsibilities

• Conduct assessments to identify goals of care and develop individualized care plans.
• Provide psychosocial support to children during medical procedures.
• Plan activities to promote child development.

Skills

Effective communication

Organizational skills

Cultural safety

Holistic care

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Child Development or related field

Job description

Child Life Specialist, Child and Youth Therapeutic Services, CORE

BC Children's Hospital

Vancouver, BC

The Child Life Specialist reports operationally to the Director, Professional Practice and the designated Program Leader and professionally under the practice supervision of the Practice Leader, Child Life. The role provides activities that support the social, emotional, intellectual, and physical development of children and youth. The Child Life Specialist is a member of Child & Youth Therapeutic Services and works within an interdisciplinary healthcare team, adhering to the standards of the Association of Child Life Professionals.

What you'll do

• Conduct screening and assessments of patients, utilizing established standards and guidelines, to identify child/family goals of care.
• Develop and implement care plans tailored to individual needs, considering cultural, religious, learning, social, and economic factors. Support children, youth, and caregivers during hospitalization by promoting effective coping techniques and providing recommendations to the healthcare team.
• Provide preparation, focus alternatives, and coping skills coaching for medical procedures, offering psychosocial support to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Plan and supervise activities that promote growth and development, including therapeutic and medical play opportunities, to help children adapt to their healthcare environment.
• Monitor patients to assess if care plans meet established goals.
• Document assessments, care plans, recommendations, and interventions accurately in health records, adhering to legal and policy standards.
• Utilize technology and software applications to support children, youth, and families effectively.

What you bring

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Child Development or related field with coursework required for child life certification.
• Eligibility to write the Child Life Certification Examination.

• Knowledge of the impacts of settler colonialism and systemic racism on Indigenous Peoples, with a commitment to anti-racism and health equity.
• Understanding of legislative obligations and commitments related to Indigenous rights and anti-racism, including TRC Calls to Action, UNDRIP, and provincial acts.

Core Competencies

• Understanding of Indigenous-specific and systemic racism, with demonstrated leadership in fostering an inclusive environment.
• Knowledge of social determinants of health and ability to provide culturally safe, holistic care respecting Indigenous and BIPOC perspectives.

You will also have:

• Ability to assess and interact with patients and families considering human development, family systems, and cultural diversity.
• Effective communication and organizational skills, ability to work in a team, operate related equipment, and physical capacity to perform duties.
• Commitment to ongoing learning about Indigenous health issues, cultural safety, and DEI principles.

What we bring

We support your health and professional development through various programs, including cultural safety training, flexible work options, and discounts. Join BC's largest employer and make a difference in the lives of children and families across BC.

Applications are accepted until the position is filled. The role is casual, with hours from 0800-1600 at 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver BC.

BC Children's Hospital, part of PHSA, provides specialized care for seriously ill children and youth from across BC. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, especially in addressing Indigenous-specific racism and systemic barriers in healthcare.

For support or inquiries, contact [e-mail].