A child life specialist uses self-expression techniques such as conversation, play and art to help children cope with upsetting events such as surgeries and routine examinations. The specialist also uses therapeutic medical play such as medical equipment, special dolls and stuffed animals to teach children about medical conditions and procedures. In addition, a specialist works with children's family members such as parents, siblings and grandparents by providing emotional support, guidance and information. You may provide grief and bereavement support to families. The child life specialist creates, coordinates and implements special events, celebrations and programs such as pet therapy programs.
You must have either a bachelor's or master's degree to work as a child life specialist. According to the Mayo Clinic, many colleges and universities have a child life specialist program. However, a degree in a related field such as child development, psychology, early childhood education and child and family studies is sufficient to become a child life specialist. Internships also are available during post-secondary study.
The Child Life Council offers a certification examination to become a child life specialist. The eligibility requirements are based on education such as a bachelor's degree, completion of at least 10 college-level courses in child life and clinical experience.
You must enjoy working with children and their families. You need excellent verbal and written communications skills. A child life specialist has to explain complex medical terminology, conditions, procedures and information to children of all ages. Also, you must be able to use language and demeanor that fits the appropriate age and emotional state of children. You must have the ability to work independently and as part of a health care team. The ability to handle stressful situations, multitask and use time management skills is a must to be successful as a child life specialist.
Employment for a child life specialist, according to the CLC, depends on the health care industry and geographic location. You may have to relocate to find a job in the field. A child life specialist typically works in hospitals, but others employers include funeral homes, schools, physician's offices, courts and specialized camps. According to Degree Directory, the median salary for a child life specialist was $43,203, as of 2010.