_Hennepin Healthcare is looking for a Child Life Specialist (Casual) to work in the Pediatric Inpatient and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit - both located in downtown Minneapolis. Occasional referrals throughout the hospital system may be required based on coverage needs. This role is projected to start mid-summer 2024 for an expected maternity coverage period (August-November). The position will work Monday-Thursday (7:30am-4:00pm). Future coverage needs may extend this role's employment dates. This is a grant-funded position with expected ongoing renewals for Child Life care at Hennepin Healthcare. _*SUMMARY* _ Plans, implements and evaluates programs to promote pediatric patients effective coping with health care encounters through play, preparation, education and self-expressive activities. Serves as educator and advocate to other professionals on the psychosocial needs of children and families. Promotes a philosophy of family centered care within the hospital. *RESPONSIBILITIES_* * Assess the effects of illness and hospitalization on the coping abilities of pediatric patients and their families * Collaborate with the health care team to develop a plan of care to promote coping and adaptation that meets the individual needs of the hospitalized child * Provide opportunities for normal play activities based on the assessed developmental and physical capabilities needs of the hospitalized child * Provide developmentally appropriate preparation for planned medical procedures and interventions * Utilize medical and healthcare play for education and coping * Provide emotional support to patients and their families during stressful experiences * Utilize stress reduction techniques to facilitate coping * Advocate for children and family’s needs within the hospital * Respond to consults with other health team members on patient and family needs * Document child life activities and interventions * Order and maintain supplies and equipment and participate in securing and managing budget and resources * Plan and coordinate special events, programs and guests * Supervise child life volunteers * Provide in-service and educational presentations as appropriate

_QUALIFICATIONS _ Minimum Qualifications: * Bachelor’s degree in child life or related field

Knowledge/ Skills/ Abilities:

• Ability to assess the developmental status of a child
• Ability to identify coping abilities of the child and family
• Ability to develop and present developmentally appropriate coping interventions to staff who interact with pediatric patients
• Ability to advocate on behalf of a child in the treatment setting in order to maximize coping abilities
• Ability to interact with children and their families in a therapeutic manner
• Ability to use an electronic health record
• Ability to manage time and prioritize patient intervention needs
• Ability to plan, coordinate and manage day to day Child Life Program operations

License/ Certifications:

• Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) issued by the Child Life Council completed within 6 months of hire or transfer date

Title: Child Life Specialist (Casual)

Location: MN-Minneapolis-Downtown Campus

Requisition ID: 240659