The CCLS in this role, will serve to alleviate some of this burden by providing therapeutic support through targeted interventions. For example, during painful physical therapy sessions, they may utilize distraction techniques such as games, puzzles, and breathing exercises such as blowing out birthday candles (i.e. fingers representing candles on cake), pinwheels, or bubbles to ease the discomfort and enhance coping. They will also emphasize the importance of age appropriate education—helping children understand their diagnosis and the purpose of their physical therapy to reduce confusion and misconceptions.
Normalizing the environment is another key aspect of the Rehabilitation CCLS’s role. By organizing activities like “Fun Fridays,” where we follow weekly dress-up themes and engage in creative crafts, they will work to create a space where kids can still enjoy being kids, despite the challenges they face.
Ultimately, the goal of the Rehabilitation CCLS is to provide a supportive, understanding presence that addresses not only the child’s physical challenges but also the emotional well-being of the entire family system. Maintaining a CCLS on staff ensures that children and their families have the support they need to navigate their healthcare journey with confidence, safety, and as much normalcy as possible.
Qualifications
Education
Required: Bachelor's degree in Child Development, Psychology or Social Work
Experience
Required: 2 years as Child Life Specialist
Certifications
Required: Child Life Specialist (CCLS)
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Description
The CCLS in the Rehabilitation department at Paley Spine Institute, will have firsthand experience working with children who often remain in our care for extended periods, sometimes months, far away from home. This separation, combined with the daily physical therapy they must endure, can be overwhelming for both the child and their family. Many children have one parent with them, while the other is at home managing household responsibilities, work, or caring for siblings, adding emotional strain to an already difficult situation.