Pediatric Child Life Specialist — Flexible PRN

MHM Support Services; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 25,000 - 40,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision coverage

Paid time off

Tuition support

Retirement plans matching

Job summary

Mercy Kids St. Louis seeks a compassionate Child Life Specialist to join our pediatric team on a PRN basis.

You will provide emotional support, therapeutic play, and education to children and families during hospital experiences. You will lead developmentally appropriate activities, collaborate with the care team, supervise students and volunteers, and help families navigate procedures while maintaining patient- and family-centered care.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Child Life, Child Development, Psychology, Education, or a related field.
• Child Life Certification (CCLS)
• Experience in pediatric hospital, healthcare, or child development setting
• Experience supervising students, interns, or volunteers

Responsibilities

• Provide developmentally appropriate education, preparation, and support for children undergoing tests, procedures, surgeries, and treatments
• Help reduce fear and anxiety through therapeutic play, coping strategies, and emotional support
• Advocate for patients and families while promoting patient- and family-centered care
• Assess patient and family needs and develop individualized treatment goals and care plans
• Facilitate therapeutic group and individual activities that support normal growth and development
• Orient patients and families to Child Life services and available resources
• Educate hospital departments about Child Life services and serve as a resource across Mercy Children's Hospital
• Supervise Child Life students, interns, and volunteers
• Complete documentation accurately and within established timelines

Skills

Compassionate care

Strong communication

Team collaboration

Independence

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Child Life/Child Development/Psychology/Education

Job description

Mercy Kids St. Louis seeks a compassionate Child Life Specialist to join our pediatric team on a PRN basis.

You will provide emotional support, therapeutic play, and education to children and families during hospital experiences. You will lead developmentally appropriate activities, collaborate with the care team, supervise students and volunteers, and help families navigate procedures while maintaining patient- and family-centered care.