IU Health
Child Life Specialist - Patient Experience
5165 McCarty Ln, Lafayette, IN 47905
Full-time
First seen by offpeak October 4, 2026
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Shift: Full-Time Day
Department: Patient Experience Join Our Team! Are you passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of pediatric patients and their families? We are seeking compassionate, purpose-driven individuals dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and their families through challenging hospital experiences. If you’re committed to excellence and eager to serve with purpose, we want to hear from you! Apply NOW — We can't wait to meet you! Position Overview: The Child Life Specialist is a vital member of the healthcare team, addressing the psychosocial and emotional needs of infants, children, adolescents, and young adults during their hospital stay. Responsible for supporting patients and families as they cope with illness, injury, or loss across various settings. The CLS assesses psychosocial, developmental, and cultural needs, applying developmentally appropriate interventions to educate, prepare, and support families. The role involves collaboration with a multidisciplinary team to promote emotionally safe, family-centered care. Key Responsibilities:
- Support patients and families in adjusting to medical experiences and hospitalization.
- Assess psychosocial, developmental, and cultural needs of patients and families.
- Develop and implement developmentally appropriate interventions to educate, prepare, and support families.
- Advocate for emotionally safe, family-centered care in collaboration with the healthcare team.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to enhance patient and family experiences.
- Education:
- Bachelor’s Degree in a related field.
- Experience:
- 0-3 years of relevant experience.
- Certifications:
- Enrollment in or completion of an ACLP internship.
- Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) Certification within 1 year of hire.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification through the American Heart Association.
- 401(k) retirement savings with employer match
- Tuition reimbursement
- Student loan forgiveness programs (for qualifying participants)
- Employee Assistance Program (free counseling services)
- Healthy Results wellness program, with financial incentives for participation