What degrees do most child life specialists have?
- Child Life
- Child/Family Development
- Human Development
- Family Dynamics
- Expressive Therapies (play, music, dance, art)
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Therapeutic Recreation
- Education
What colleges in my area offer a child life program?
For a list of colleges that offer a specific child life program, visit the Academic Program Directory at www.childlife.org. Identify colleges that have a child development program.
If I do not have a degree that fits or I am making a career change, what do I do?
The Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP) requires a total of 10 college-level courses in child life or a related field, which they approve in order to be eligible to sit for the Child Life Professional Certification Examination.
Do I have to be certified to become a child life specialist?
Most hospitals require child life professionals to be certified or at least to be eligible to sit for the Child Life Professional Certification Examination. For more information about becoming a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS), visit the ACLP website at www.childlife.org.
What are the career prospects for a child life specialist?
CCLSs are typically employed in hospitals. Some CCLSs are applying their skills in other areas such as outpatient clinics, doctors’ offices, hospice, schools, and funeral homes.
How many hours does a child life specialist work per week?
A full time CCLS works 40+ hours per week. Some sites may offer part time opportunities.
What is the average salary of a child life specialist?
The average salary of a child life specialist varies depending on position, years of experience, education level, and location. The salary calculator at www.childlife.org (available to ACLP members) provides more information on salary. Other benefits may include healthcare coverage, 403b, tuition reimbursement, and conference reimbursement.
Can I shadow a child life specialist at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan (CHM)?
No, shadowing opportunities are not available at CHM to protect our patients’ rights to confidentiality and privacy.
Do I have to have certification to be hired at CHM?
Candidates must be certified or eligible for certification. If candidates are not certified when hired, they have up to one year to obtain certification. Maintenance of certification is required.
What do I have to do to become a volunteer at CHM?
Click here to access the CHM volunteer application.
- Child Life
- Child/Family Development
- Human Development
- Family Dynamics
- Expressive Therapies (play, music, dance, art)
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Therapeutic Recreation
- Education
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