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Child Life Specialist - Regional Health Authority

The Child Life Specialist plans, initiates and monitors daily activities designed to further the social, emotional, intellectual and physical development of children and adolescents on an assigned unit. This includes promoting an increased understanding of medical events and procedures to help parents recognize the needs of their child.

Education Requirements

Normally Needed

Bachelor's Degree in Child and Youth Care, Child Development, Psychology, Education, Family Studies, or related subject.

Career Pathway Advice

Before Graduation

  • Gain Work Experiences. (e.g., Co-op Education, Internships, Work Integrated Learning).
  • Be Curious. Ask questions about the work environment and day-to-day tasks of a job. This includes reaching out to professionals in the field, faculty, counsellors/advisors, neighbours and friends.
  • Develop Power Skills. (e.g., oral and written communication, teamwork & leadership, problem solving, critical thinking, innovation & creativity, and engaging diversity).
  • Know Your Transferable Skills. Understand how the skills you are learning in your program meet or transfer to the requirements of your intended job.
  • Develop Digital Literacy. Be able to find, communicate, create, and edit files online (e.g., Word, Excel, Outlook, Adobe).
  • Be Grade Point Average (GPA) Aware. Know the minimum grade point average needed for admission to your desired graduate or professional program (if applicable).
  • Pursue Mentorship and Network Opportunities. (e.g., information interviews, developing relationships with someone working in the field, joining professional organizations, job shadowing, or volunteering).
  • Prepare Your Job Search Documents. (e.g., LinkedIn profile, CV/Resume, cover letter, and portfolio).
  • Practice your Interview Skills. Research common interview questions employers use, develop short stories you can use to demonstrate your skills and experience, and seek help from a career centre, family, or friends to do mock interviews.

After Graduation

  • Seek mentorship from co-workers and supervisors.
  • Participate in ongoing learning and professional development.
  • Build network relationships with other industry professionals.
  • Keep your job search documents updated.
  • Research the training opportunities offered by your employer.
  • Build your brand by using social media, LinkedIn, and through professional memberships or associations.

Spotlight Requirements

  • Eligibility for membership with Child Life Council or the Canadian Association of Child Life Leaders.
  • Completion of Child Life Certification.

Note: You should always confirm admission requirements for your desired program with your intended university.

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