Pediatric Play & Family Support Specialist

Lifespan; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 48,068 - 79,372; Full time

Job summary

Brown University Health is seeking a Certified Child Life Specialist to support pediatric patients and families in a hospital setting. You will assess needs, implement developmentally appropriate play, and coordinate care within a multidisciplinary team.

The role emphasizes family education, coping strategies, and preparation for medical experiences, with opportunities to educate staff and contribute to program evaluation.

Qualifications

• ACLP internship hours verified (minimum 600 hours).
• Bachelor’s degree in child life, child development, or closely related field required; master’s degree preferred.
• Certified Child Life Specialist by the Association of Child Life Professionals (or completion within one year of hire).
• Completion of child life professional internship with one year of experience working with children; healthcare setting strongly preferred.
• Independent action within department policies; refer complex problems to supervisor when clarification is required.
• Supervisory responsibility: orients, trains, and supervises students and volunteers assigned to the unit.

Responsibilities

• Assess developmental, psychosocial, and family needs to plan care.
• Provide psychosocially and developmentally appropriate support and advocacy.
• Educate families with resources promoting learning mastery.
• Prepare families for challenging situations to minimize fear and anxiety.
• Develop coping strategies to minimize distress and promote empowerment.
• Facilitate play to promote development and normalization.
• Evaluate and document goals, interventions, outcomes, and events.
• Collaborate with the healthcare team and community resources.
• Educate staff, students, volunteers, and the community about child life.
• Engage in quality improvement, staffing, policies, and program evaluation.
• Engage in ongoing learning to stay updated on medical information.
• Orient, train, and supervise students and volunteers.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Independent work

Supervisory skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in child life, child development, or closely related field

Master’s degree preferred

Certified Child Life Specialist (or completion within one year of hire)

Job description

Brown University Health is seeking a Certified Child Life Specialist to support pediatric patients and families in a hospital setting. You will assess needs, implement developmentally appropriate play, and coordinate care within a multidisciplinary team.

The role emphasizes family education, coping strategies, and preparation for medical experiences, with opportunities to educate staff and contribute to program evaluation.