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Child Life Specialist Assistant Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Ascension

Certified Child Life Specialist

Evansville, IN · On-site

$21.36/hr

Child Life Professional credentialed from the Association of Child Life Professionals obtained within 12 Months (1 year) of hire date or job transfer date. Education: * Bachelor's degree required.

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How much do child life specialist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for child life specialist assistant in Indiana is $25.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $29.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Child Life Specialist Assistant Do?

As a child life specialist assistant, you support young patients for the duration of their hospitalization. This involves providing emotional support, running daily activities, providing orientation for family members, and ensuring a safe area for therapeutic play. Child life specialist assistants usually work under a senior child life specialist and may provide extra attention to children with serious conditions, ensure patients have opportunities to participate in play activities, and otherwise help ensure the safety and security of both guests and visitors. Child life specialist assistants also help oversee volunteers. This job is usually limited to inpatient facilities like hospitals, but on rare occasions, you may be asked to travel to help meet the needs of a particular patient.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Child Life Specialist Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Life Specialist Assistant, you need foundational knowledge in child development, therapeutic play, and a relevant associate’s or bachelor’s degree, often in child life, psychology, or a related field. Familiarity with documentation systems, child life assessment tools, and sometimes CPR or first aid certification is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and creativity help build trust with children and support families during stressful healthcare experiences. These abilities are crucial for providing emotional support and promoting positive coping strategies in pediatric healthcare settings.

What are some common challenges faced by Child Life Specialist Assistants in supporting hospitalized children?

Child Life Specialist Assistants often encounter the challenge of helping children cope with fear, anxiety, and unfamiliar hospital environments. Balancing the emotional needs of patients while coordinating with Child Life Specialists, nurses, and families requires strong communication and adaptability. Additionally, maintaining a playful and supportive atmosphere despite medical procedures or stressful situations can be demanding. These challenges are balanced by the rewarding impact of making a positive difference in children's hospital experiences.

What are Child Life Specialist Assistants?

Child Life Specialist Assistants are professionals who support Child Life Specialists in helping children and families cope with the challenges of hospitalization, illness, and medical procedures. They assist in preparing activities, maintaining playrooms, and providing emotional support under the guidance of certified Child Life Specialists. Their role is essential in creating a positive hospital environment, promoting normal growth and development, and reducing stress for pediatric patients.

How to become a child life specialist assistant?

To become a child life specialist assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience working with children in healthcare or educational settings. Some positions require an associate's or bachelor's degree in child development, psychology, or a related field, and strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential. Certification as a Child Life Assistant or related credential can enhance job prospects.

What is the difference between Child Life Specialist Assistant vs Child Life Specialist?

AspectChild Life Specialist AssistantChild Life Specialist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require relevant coursework or certificationBachelor's degree in child life, psychology, or related field; certification as a Child Life Specialist (CCLS)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, pediatric units, or community settingsSame as assistant, often with more direct patient interaction and responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, healthcare facilities, pediatric care providersHospitals, healthcare organizations, pediatric care providers

The main difference between a Child Life Specialist Assistant and a Child Life Specialist lies in their qualifications and responsibilities. Assistants typically support specialists and may have less formal education or certification, while specialists hold a degree and certification, enabling them to perform more advanced clinical duties. Both roles work in similar environments, focusing on supporting children's emotional well-being during medical experiences.

More about Child Life Specialist Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Child Life Specialist jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Child Life Specialist jobs in Indiana are:
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What cities in Indiana are hiring for Child Life Specialist Assistant jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Child Life Specialist Assistant job openings:
Child Life Specialist Assistant jobs near you
Child Life-Specialist

Child Life-Specialist

Indiana University Health

Indianapolis, IN

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Indiana University Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 455 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

326th of 864 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Child Life Specialist

Location: Palliative Care Team at Riley Hospital 
Shift: Full-Time Day 

Join Our Compassionate Pediatric Care Team!

Indiana University Health Riley Hospital is seeking a dedicated Child Life Specialist (CLS) to support the emotional, developmental, and psychosocial needs of infants, children, adolescents, and young adults during their hospital experience. This full-time role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families during challenging times.

If you are passionate about family-centered care and supporting children through illness, injury, or loss, we encourage you to apply!

Position Overview:

The Child Life Specialist works as a vital member of the healthcare team to address the emotional and psychosocial concerns of pediatric patients and their families. Responsibilities include:

  • Supporting families and patients adjusting to illness, injury, or loss in critical, acute, and ambulatory settings
  • Assessing psychosocial, developmental, and cultural needs of patients and families
  • Using developmentally appropriate interventions to educate, prepare, and support families, enhancing their coping skills
  • Collaborating with the multidisciplinary team to advocate for emotionally safe, family-centered care
  • Creating a supportive environment that addresses emotional well-being and reduces anxiety
Qualifications & Requirements:
  • Education: Bachelor's Degree required.
  • Experience: 0-3 years of relevant experience preferred.
  • Certifications:
    • ACLP Certified Child Life Specialist Certification required within one year of hire.
    • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification through the American Heart Association required.
  • Additional Requirements:
    • Completed or current enrollment in a Child Life Internship at a children's hospital is mandatory to be considered

Why Join IU Health?

Become part of a dedicated pediatric team committed to compassionate, family-centered care. We value your expertise and your dedication to helping children and families navigate healthcare challenges with emotional support and developmentally appropriate interventions.

Ready to enhance the hospital experience for children and families?
Apply now to join IU Health Riley Hospital as a Child Life Specialist!

  • Indiana University Health has nearly 40,000 team members, including more than 3,600 physicians and 1,200 advanced practice providers, and we're home to the largest nursing network in Indiana with more than 9,000 nursing team members at over 800 sites of care.
  • IU Health is ranked No. 1 in Indiana by U.S. News & World Report, Riley Children's Health is ranked among the top children's hospitals in the country by U.S. News & World Report.
  • A unique partnership with the Indiana University School of Medicine - one of the nation's largest medical schools - gives patients access to groundbreaking research and innovative treatments, and it offers team members access to the latest science and the very best training - advancing healthcare for all.
  • With 15 hospitals, including seven with Magnet designation and eight with Pathways to Excellence designation, our team members are leading the way through excellence.
  • At Indiana University Health, your personal and professional growth is a top priority. You will have access to many diverse opportunities to learn and develop in meaningful ways that matter most to you, such as advanced clinical training, leadership development, promotion opportunities and cross training development.
  • Indiana University Health is invested in the lives of Hoosiers, leading the transformation of healthcare to make Indiana one of the nation's healthiest states.
Indiana University Health is Indiana's most comprehensive health system, with 15 hospitals and nearly 40,000 team members serving Hoosiers across the state. We're looking for team members who are inspired by challenging and meaningful work for the good of every patient. People who are compassionate and serve with a purpose. People who aspire to excellence every day.

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