Pediatric Child Life Specialist: Family & Coping Support

Advocate Health; Park Ridge (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Advocate Health is seeking a Certified Child Life Specialist to support pediatric patients and families in a hospital setting. You will plan developmentally appropriate activities, prepare patients for procedures, and partner with staff to minimize medical trauma while promoting coping and resilience.

You will educate families, coordinate with education and creative arts therapies, and supervise interns. A Bachelor’s in Child Life/Development and ACLP certification are required, with ongoing

Qualifications

• Certified Child Life Specialist within 6 months of hire
• Bachelor’s degree in Child Life/Child Development or related field
• Experience with patients from birth to 21 years in healthcare settings
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team and communicate effectively
• Knowledge of growth and development principles and ability to assess patient data
• Empathy and supportive approach for diverse patient/family populations

Responsibilities

• Provide direct patient and family care across pediatric development stages
• Prepare children and families for treatments and procedures and offer coping support
• Advocate for pain management and developmentally appropriate care
• Coordinate with staff to enhance patient/family communication
• Plan events and activities to support typical development during treatment
• Supervise interns and volunteers in Child Life and Education departments
• Maintain donor relations and manage in-kind donations as needed
• Participate in interdisciplinary rounds and patient care conferences

Skills

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Pediatric care

End-of-life support

Developmental knowledge

Data assessment & prioritization

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Child Life/Child Development

ACLP certification within 6 months of hire

Tools

Electronic medical records (EMR) familiarity

Job description

Advocate Health is seeking a Certified Child Life Specialist to support pediatric patients and families in a hospital setting. You will plan developmentally appropriate activities, prepare patients for procedures, and partner with staff to minimize medical trauma while promoting coping and resilience.

You will educate families, coordinate with education and creative arts therapies, and supervise interns. A Bachelor’s in Child Life/Development and ACLP certification are required, with ongoing