What should I major in to be a child life specialist?

What should I major in to be a child life specialist?

In order to become a child life specialist, one must have a bachelor’s degree in the field of psychology, sociology or child development. All applicants must have completed 10 courses in a child life subject and at least one must have been taught by a certified child life specialist.

How does a child life specialist contribute to the healthcare experience?

By providing evidence-based, developmentally- and psychologically-appropriate interventions, Certified Child Life Specialists can greatly ease the distress that children and their families experience at these critical moments. They also improve the ratings families give about their hospital care experience.

Are child life specialist in high demand?

As a specialist, it is most fulfilling to see a once anxious or fearful patient get through a difficult experience with new found coping skills and confidence. There is high demand for clinical Child Life services as well as administrative and programming responsibilities.

Where does a child life specialist work?

Child life specialists primarily work in hospitals, but may also find opportunities working in medical clinics, hospice, dental offices, schools, camps, and potentially even the homes of their patients.

Do child life specialists wear scrubs?

What do I need to wear during my internship? You may choose to wear scrubs that match the child life specialists in Caribbean Blue or wear business casual clothing.

Why do child life specialists often use play in their work with a child?

Specialists use art and play to help children express their anxieties about their diagnosis or procedures that they may not be able to verbalize. Child life specialists also advocate for the wellbeing of teenagers in the hospital, putting on events and programs that promote socializing. 4.

How do I become a child life specialist in Arizona?

Internship Applicant Requirements Degree. A Bachelor’s (required) or Master’s (highly preferred) degree in any field of study – Bachelor’s degree must be completed before application deadline. Practicum. Coursework. CPR Certification.

Is child life specialist competitive?

Child Life is a competitive field. With expansion of hospitals and children’s hospitals, there has been an increased demand for Child Life Specialists. It is important to focus on Child Life specific coursework and to volunteer with well and hospitalized children to be a part of the competitive field.

What can I do with a masters in child life?

A master’s degree in Child Development opens the doors to many different careers….A few other jobs you might land in include:Special Education Teachers.Parent Educator.Early Childhood Education Consultant.Social Worker.Preschool Director.Child Life Specialist.

How much do child life specialist make in California?

Child Life Specialist Salary in CaliforniaPercentileSalaryLast Updated50th Percentile Child Life Specialist Salary$60,688Novem75th Percentile Child Life Specialist Salary$68,038Novem90th Percentile Child Life Specialist Salary$74,729Novem2

How do I become a child life specialist in Canada?

A child life specialist internship currently requires a minimum of 600 hours of child life clinical experience under the direct supervision of a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS). It provides hands-on experience for individuals who plan to pursue a career in child life and is required for certification.

How much do child life specialists make in Canada?

The average Child Life Specialist salary in Canada is $66,338 per year or $34.02 per hour. Entry level positions start at $30,426 per year while most experienced workers make up to $92,957 per year.

What is a hospital child life specialist?

What is a Child Life Specialist? We use our understanding of child development and therapeutic play to help children cope with any pain, anxiety or fear they have during a hospital admission. Our aim is to provide a positive experience for all children and young people who are hospitalized.

How do I become a child life specialist in Ontario?

Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree: Applicants must complete an undergraduate degree (Child and Youth Care, Education, Psychology, Social Work, or other allied degree) from a recognized post-secondary institution with a minimum GPA of 3.00 (B average).

How do I become a certified child life specialist?

To earn the Certified Child Life Specialist credential, candidates must successfully complete the Child Life Professional Certification Examination. Applicants must establish eligibility for the exam, documenting the completion of all the requirements that are in effect at the time of their exam application.

How long does it take to become a child life specialist?

You can choose between a bachelor’s degree, which takes four years to complete, or a dual degree in Child Life, social work or child and human development, which takes five years to complete.