Child Life Specialist

The way children grow up mentally as well as physically has a significant impact on their future life. If there are some issues in the standard growth of a child, it is more likely that his behavior would not be like other normal children. There is a career opportunity directly related to child care which is that of child life specialists. These pediatric experts are responsible for addressing children's mental or sometimes physical needs.

How to Become a Child Life Specialist

The most essential prerequisites that are needed to enter into this medical job is to have a strong liking to work with children and good communication skills. When it comes to the education requirements in getting into this child care work, you basically need a bachelor's or more preferably a master's degree in child care. Get admission into a good college for a bachelor's in child care, after which you can opt for the master's.

During your education period, it is suggested to gain practical experience in the field by volunteering in camps and clubs for kids and other facilities for recreation activities. You can even work as a child counseling intern in any hospital, under the supervision of a certified child care specialist. Once your education is complete, you can approach the Child Life Council for the certification requirements. In order to obtain the child care certification, you will have to show a certain number of hours spent in practical work.

Job Description

A child life specialist is a professional who usually provides services in hospital facilities and child care centers. His main responsibility is to ensure proper psychosocial development of children. These professionals prepare plans and courses of action to help a child cope up with stress. They have to determine the mental health of the child and devise strategies to treat the conditions related to disturbing aspects related to death, complicated medical procedures, sickness, anxiety, etc. They consult and work with the patient's parents and other medical experts to manage stress and depression.

They may arrange for recreational activities like skits and plays to help the child get his attention away from stressful factors. He also communicates with children and mentally prepares them for medical procedures in a tactful manner. Owing to the type of work; these child care professionals are even hired by entities such as schools, funeral homes, camps, and several other places where there is a need for providing emotional support to children.

Salary

The salary range for jobs as a child care specialist largely counts on determinants like the experience, education, certification, and state. Child care specialists in New York are considered to be paid between a range of $35,500 and $46,000; whereas those in Illinois may receive anywhere from $33,000 to $40,000. Employers can consider a higher pay if you are a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS). Coming to the years of experience, freshers or those with under a year's experience can expect to be paid between $34,500 and $49,500.

For more detailed information on this hospital job, it is recommended to visit the Child Life Council website. Those who love to be with children and communicate with them do have a plus point to get into a career as a child life specialist.