Job Description

Cabell Huntington Hospital is seeking a Child Life Extern to work alongside our Children's Hospital.

The primary purpose of the Child Life Extern is to gain practical, hands-on experience in the hospital environment under the supervision of a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS). The Child Life Extern assists in providing developmentally appropriate play, procedural preparation and support, and therapeutic activities to pediatric patients and their families. The extern will observe and participate in clinical interventions while learning about the psychosocial aspects of hospitalization and the child life profession.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Support and assist Certified Child Life Specialists in daily clinical duties and interventions.
• Facilitate play opportunities for children of all developmental levels in the playroom and at bedside.
• Observe and participate in patient preparation, coping, and procedural support when appropriate.
• Assist in maintaining safe, clean, and organized play and storage areas.
• Help coordinate special events, programs, and donor relations with the Child Life team.
• Document patient interactions under supervision to promote professional growth and understanding of healthcare documentation.
• Participate in team meetings, rounds, and educational in-services as assigned.
• Demonstrate respect, compassion, and professionalism in all patient and family interactions.

Qualifications

• Enrollment in a bachelor’s or master’s program in Child Life, Human Development, Psychology, or related field required.
• Completion of a minimum of 100 practicum or observation hours in a hospital or healthcare setting preferred.
• CPR (BLS) Certification required.
• Eligibility for or working toward certification through the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP) required.