Pediatric Child Life Specialist — Sign-On Bonus

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 71,090 - 74,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus

Relocation allowance

Job summary

UVA Health Children’s is seeking a Child Life Specialist to assess, educate, prepare, and support pediatric patients and families throughout the healthcare experience. The role emphasizes emotional wellbeing, coping, and resilience during illness, procedures, and hospitalization.

You will collaborate with physicians, nurses, social workers, and care teams, using developmentally appropriate education and therapeutic play to reduce anxiety and stress for patients and families.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in child life, child development, or related field.
• Successful completion of a 600-hour Child Life Internship under supervision.

Responsibilities

• Assess developmental, psychosocial, and emotional needs of pediatric patients and families.
• Prepare children for procedures using developmentally appropriate education and therapeutic play.
• Provide procedural and emotional support before, during, and after medical interventions.
• Support families during times of uncertainty, crisis, and adjustment.
• Collaborate with physicians, nurses, social workers, and care teams.
• Adapt interventions for diverse patient populations and varying acuity.

Skills

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Emotional support for pediatric care

Therapeutic play

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

600-hour Child Life Internship

Job description

UVA Health Children’s is seeking a Child Life Specialist to assess, educate, prepare, and support pediatric patients and families throughout the healthcare experience. The role emphasizes emotional wellbeing, coping, and resilience during illness, procedures, and hospitalization.

You will collaborate with physicians, nurses, social workers, and care teams, using developmentally appropriate education and therapeutic play to reduce anxiety and stress for patients and families.