Child Life Specialist, CEN Women & Children's Program

Reporting to the Manager of the Women & Children's Program and working as an active member of the inter-professional team the Child Life Specialist in the healthcare setting strives to promote the continued development of children, adolescents and families by maintaining normal living patterns, and minimizing the potential for psychological trauma. The Child Life Specialist values plan as a healing modality, and work to enhance the growth and development of children and youth through assessment, intervention, prevention, advocacy and education.

• Conduct an assessment of the child’s development, temperament, coping style, culture, spirituality, potential stressors, family needs and social support.
• Provide psychosocial support throughout the health care setting, including Paediatrics, Pre-Op Teaching, Same Day Surgery, Post Operative Care Unit, Intensive Care Unit, and Emergency Department, as well as participating in the parent present induction program known as “Til I Sleep”.
• Conduct universal infant hearing screening for both inpatient and outpatient newborns.
• Advocate for children and families throughout the hospital, promoting family centered care and parental participation in their child’s care. Provide education for families and members of the interprofessional team, and conduct education sessions for children scheduled for elective surgery and their families.
• Promote a collaborative approach to care including all members of the health care team, and participate on internal committees pertaining to children and families.
• Supervise the child life playroom and activities provided to the paediatric patients and their families.
• Contribute to creating a safe and healthy environment for patients, staff and others, working in compliance with the hospital code of conduct and the provisions of health and safety policies and legislation. Utilizes protective equipment provided and identifies and reports hazards.

• Diploma or certificate in Early Childhood Education or experience in related field
• Minimum of 2 years related work experience as Child Life Specialist
• Knowledge of Growth and Development of children from 0 to 16 years of agency and childcare
• Proven ability to work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team and independently
• Demonstrates a commitment to customer service when dealing with patients, colleagues, volunteers and other members of the community and public
• Demonstrates values consistent with SHN’s Code of Conduct and is committed to fostering a healthy and positive work environment in accordance with Health & Safety policy and legislation.
• Utilize protective equipment provided and identify and reports hazards
• Engages in ethical conduct and strives to understand and appreciate the diversity of our patient/staff population and community
• Excellent work performance and attendance