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Dimi
Student
Woodbridge, Virginia
1
Question
Updated
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What is the best path to take to becoming a child life specialist in a hospital #Fall25?
I'm a senior in high school with a passion for working with children. I'm set on helping children in a counseling role, and being a child life specialist is my dream job, however the field isn't very popular and is hard to find guidance in. My intended college major is child development/early childhood education. #Fall25
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Kelsi Moore
Certified Child Life Specialist
6
Answers
Lehi, Utah
Updated
Kelsi’s Answer
Becoming a child life specialist is a rewarding career, and here's how you can get started:
1. Education: Aim for a degree in child development or psychology. Make sure to complete the ten required courses by the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP), including one taught by a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS).
2. Experience: While studying, gain experience with children in various settings—healthy kids, those in stressful situations, and in hospitals. Volunteer or work in these environments to apply what you learn and discover which groups you enjoy working with.
3. Pre-Internship: Although not mandatory, pre-internship experiences are crucial. Enroll in these courses, which involve hospital visits for observation. Be open to opportunities nationwide.
4. Internship: Secure an internship, which is very competitive. It’s a 40-hour-a-week unpaid position that often counts for college credit. Be prepared to relocate if needed.
5. Certification: Once you complete your internship, you can pursue a job and take the certification exam.
Visit the ACLP website https://www.childlife.org/certification/become-certified for detailed steps and requirements. Best of luck on your journey!
1. Education: Aim for a degree in child development or psychology. Make sure to complete the ten required courses by the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP), including one taught by a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS).
2. Experience: While studying, gain experience with children in various settings—healthy kids, those in stressful situations, and in hospitals. Volunteer or work in these environments to apply what you learn and discover which groups you enjoy working with.
3. Pre-Internship: Although not mandatory, pre-internship experiences are crucial. Enroll in these courses, which involve hospital visits for observation. Be open to opportunities nationwide.
4. Internship: Secure an internship, which is very competitive. It’s a 40-hour-a-week unpaid position that often counts for college credit. Be prepared to relocate if needed.
5. Certification: Once you complete your internship, you can pursue a job and take the certification exam.
Visit the ACLP website https://www.childlife.org/certification/become-certified for detailed steps and requirements. Best of luck on your journey!
Thank you for your insight! I hope you don't mind if I ask a few more questions. Would a degree in Elementary Education qualify as long as it encompasses child development? Is this a competitive field, and should I invest in a minor in health sciences?
Dimi
A degree in elementary education absolutely counts! Just be sure to include the ten ACLP-required courses. It can even help you stand out since it’s less common and gives you an edge in preparing kids for procedures or teaching about diagnoses. Child life is very competitive—especially internships—though jobs are more plentiful. A health science minor won’t hurt and can strengthen your medical knowledge if you enjoy it. Ultimately, focus on what interests you and how your education and experience will support your future as a CCLS. If you can speak confidently about that, you’ll do great!
Kelsi Moore