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Child Life Activity Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Shriners Children's

Child Life Specialist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$39.62/hr

Child Life Specialist minimize anxiety and aids children and adolescents in coping with the ... Facilitates a therapeutic play program in cooperation with the Activities Coordinators promoting ...

Shriners Children's

Child Life Specialist

Boston, MA · On-site

Facilitates a therapeutic play program in cooperation with the Activities Coordinators promoting ... Child Life Certificate, or proof of eligibility * CPR Preferred Qualifications * Master's Degree

Shrinerschildrens

Child Life Specialist

Boston, MA

Facilitates a therapeutic play program in cooperation with the Activities Coordinators promoting ... Child Life Certificate, or proof of eligibility * CPR Preferred Qualifications * Master's Degree

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How much do child life activity jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for child life activity in the United States is $15.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a child life activity specialist?

Child Life Activity specialists are trained professionals who help children and families cope with the challenges of hospitalization, illness, and disability. They use play, education, and other therapeutic activities to support children's emotional and developmental needs in healthcare settings. Their goal is to minimize stress and anxiety, promote normal growth, and help children understand and manage their experiences. Child Life Activity specialists also provide support and guidance to families during difficult times.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a child life activity specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Life Activity Specialist, you typically need a background in child development, psychology, or related fields, often supported by a bachelor's degree and, in some cases, Child Life Certification (CCLS). Familiarity with therapeutic play techniques, hospital protocols, and documentation systems is important for effective intervention and record-keeping. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, empathy, and the ability to communicate with children and families distinguish outstanding professionals in this role. These skills are crucial for supporting pediatric patients' emotional well-being, reducing anxiety, and promoting positive coping strategies during medical experiences.

What are some common challenges faced by child life activity specialists when supporting children in medical settings?

Child Life Activity Specialists often face the challenge of addressing the diverse emotional needs of children who may feel anxious or fearful due to hospitalization. They must balance engaging children in therapeutic activities while also providing support to families and collaborating with medical staff. Managing time effectively to serve multiple patients, adapting activities to various developmental levels, and maintaining a calm demeanor during stressful situations are also key challenges. Strong communication and flexibility are essential for success in this rewarding yet demanding role.
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Child Life Activity jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Life Activity job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,254 per year, or $16 per hour.

Child Life Activity Assistant (Per Diem, Days)

Miami, FL • On-site

Nicklaus Children's Health System
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Nicklaus Children's Health Systemexternal

Per diem

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description
Job Summary
Provides support to the department leaders and Child Life Specialists. Assists in implementing Child Life services by planning, organizing, and implementing developmentally appropriate recreational activities. Assists with maintaining a safe and organized environment for the Child Life department.
Job Specific Duties
  • Assists the leaders with overseeing child life activities and monthly duties.
  • Assists leaders with special projects, donations, and other special events as required.
  • Uses PEDS to identify unit needs for bedside play.
  • Collaborates with nurses/others to accommodate patient's needs (toy, crafts, and Foundation).
  • Develops a productive work environment for volunteers; trains, orients, motivates, and supports volunteers.
  • Incorporates volunteers into daily programming through delegating, valuing input, empowering, and providing feedback.
  • Engages with patients at bedside, in the unit Play Spaces, or in Outpatient areas; plans and implements appropriate recreational activities and communicates observations to the team.
  • Engages children in Play Space activities; maintains Play Space environment including cleaning equipment and stocking shelves/cabinets.
  • Provides support and collaborates professionally with the Child Life Specialists.
  • Performs all other delegated duties such as copying, scanning, filing, faxing, restocking toy storage and unit prizes.

Qualifications
Minimum Job Requirements
  • Associate's Degree in Child Development, Elementary Education, or related field required within 1 year of hire date
  • American Heart Association BLS required within 90 days of hire - maintain active and in good standing throughout employment

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Experience working with children is preferred.
  • Able to adapt and react calmly under stressful conditions.
  • Able to handle multiple assignments, set priorities, and meet deadlines.
  • Abilities in prioritizing, successfully handling multiple concurrent tasks, strong problem solving skills, attention to detail, and working in a team environment.
  • Able to work independently and flexibly with minimal supervision.
  • Able to represent the department/function in a professional, courteous, and efficient manner.
  • Able to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

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