Child Life Specialist (Pool)

Orlando Health; Orlando (FL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established healthcare provider is seeking a compassionate Child Life Specialist to support children and families through challenging healthcare experiences. This role involves assessing developmental needs and providing therapeutic interventions using play and education. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in child development and be dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for young patients. Join a team recognized for excellence in pediatric care and make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and their families in Central Florida.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Child Life, Child Development, or related field required.
• Ability to work effectively with children and families.

Responsibilities

• Provide clinical support and education to patients and families.
• Implement age-appropriate pain management techniques.
• Guide parents regarding the impact of illness and treatment.

Skills

Child Development Knowledge

Assessment Techniques

Non-Pharmacological Pain Management

Communication Skills

Cultural Competence

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Child Life or Related Field

Job description

Position Summary

Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

Providing compassionate care to children, teenagers, and young adults of Central Florida for over 30 years, Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children is located on the downtown Orlando campus. It includes 156 licensed beds for specialized pediatric care, a dedicated Emergency Department & Trauma Center, and is the pediatric site of the Orlando Health ORMC Level One Trauma Center. The hospital offers state-of-the-art pediatric services delivered by a comprehensive team that includes pediatric subspecialty physicians and a Magnet-recognized nursing team known for excellence in patient care. The hospital has been nationally recognized as a “Best Children’s Hospital” by U.S. News & World Report for 12 consecutive years and was included in the IBM Watson Health 100 Top Hospitals list for 2021.

We are seeking a Child Life Specialist. This role involves assessing and providing therapeutically supportive interventions for patients and families, utilizing theories of human growth and development, family systems, and biopsychosocial models aligned with professional standards. The focus is on helping children and adolescents manage challenging life events through play, education, and preparation throughout their healthcare experience.

Shift: Varies. Pool

Responsibilities

Essential Functions

• Provide clinical support and education to patients and families of all ages.
• Use assessment techniques to determine developmental and emotional status, documenting findings as appropriate.
• Apply developmental theories to support assessments and interventions.
• Use resources to meet cultural and communication needs, providing comprehensive care.
• Implement age-appropriate, non-pharmacological pain management techniques to optimize patient outcomes.
• Use developmentally appropriate teaching strategies to support patients' cognitive and emotional needs before, during, and after procedures.
• Guide parents regarding the impact of illness, hospitalization, treatment, and bereavement.
• Prioritize the needs of each patient and family, including siblings, for child life services.
• Supervise and direct Child Life Assistants and Volunteers.
• Create a therapeutic, safe environment using play to help children cope with their healthcare experience.
• Ensure safety and child-friendliness of play areas, adhering to hospital policies on confidentiality and infection control.
• Participate in community outreach, education, and program development to enhance patient experience.
• Serve as a liaison with community partners, facilitating meaningful interactions and providing input for community service projects.
• Participate in performance improvement initiatives and hospital committees.

Qualifications

Education/Training

• Bachelor’s degree in Child Life, Child Development, Early Childhood Education, Therapeutic Recreation, Family and Child Studies, or a related field.
• Successful completion of a child life internship.

Licensure/Certification

• Maintain certification as a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) or be eligible to sit for the exam, completing it within the first year of employment.
• Maintain current BLS/Healthcare Provider certification.

Experience

• None required.

Additional Notes

• Demonstrated knowledge of child development, assessment, and psychosocial support.
• Ability to work effectively with children, families, and healthcare teams.