Child Life & Family Support Specialist

Children's National Hospital; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 36,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Children's National Hospital in Washington, DC seeks a Child Life Specialist to support patients and families with developmentally appropriate interventions, therapeutic play, and coping strategies during hospitalization. The role focuses on reducing stress, promoting normalcy, and enhancing family-centered care.

You will work within the Child Life and Integrated Care team to design individualized care plans, educate families, and collaborate with physicians, nurses, and volunteers to promote

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Child Life, Child Development or related field.
• Master's degree in Child Life, Child Development or related field preferred.
• Completion of Child Life Internship (min 600 hours) and prerequisites.
• Certified or eligible for Child Life Certification; pass exam within 6 months.

Responsibilities

• Assess patients’ development, temperament, coping and adjust interventions.
• Provide therapeutic interactions and play to support growth and coping.
• Educate siblings and parents about hospital visits and procedures.
• Maintain patient care documentation daily according to standards.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to coordinate care.

Skills

Child development

Play therapy

Communication

Empathy

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Child Life/related field

Master's Degree in Child Life/related field

Job description

Children's National Hospital in Washington, DC seeks a Child Life Specialist to support patients and families with developmentally appropriate interventions, therapeutic play, and coping strategies during hospitalization. The role focuses on reducing stress, promoting normalcy, and enhancing family-centered care.

You will work within the Child Life and Integrated Care team to design individualized care plans, educate families, and collaborate with physicians, nurses, and volunteers to promote