Child Life Specialist, GEN Women and Children's Program

Job Number: JR104152Job Title: Child Life Specialist, GEN Women and Children's ProgramJob Category: ParamedicalHospital Location: General SiteJob Type: Permanent, Full timeNumber of Positions: 1Union: OPSEUMinimum - Maximum Hourly Rate: $ $43.87Hours: Days

Across our three hospitals and eight satellite sites, Scarborough Health Network (SHN) is shaping the future of care. Our many programs and services are designed around the needs of one of Canada's most vibrant and diverse communities. We are home to North America's largest nephrology program, as well as the designated cardiac care and spine centre for Scarborough and surrounding communities to the east. We are proud to be a community-affiliated teaching site for the University of Toronto and partner with a number of other universities and colleges, helping to train the next generation of health care professionals. SHN is the recipient of the Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Award, from the Canadian College of Health Leaders, for our work led by the Organizational Development and Diversity Department on our Leading edge Communities of Inclusion, Inclusion Calendar and our innovative Health Equity Certificate programs. We are also proud to be named Canada's Most Admired Corporate Cultures for 2023 Learn more at

Job Description:

Position Summary:

Reporting to the Manager of the Women & Children's Program and working as an integral member of the interprofessional team, the Child Life Specialist plays a vital role in supporting the developmental and emotional needs of children, adolescents, and their families within the healthcare setting. This role focuses on preserving normalcy and minimizing psychological trauma during medical experiences. The Child Life Specialist embraces play as a therapeutic modality and fosters growth through assessment, intervention, prevention, advocacy, and education. Additionally, the Child Life Specialist is responsible for conducting Universal Newborn Hearing Screening.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assess the child's development, temperament, coping style, cultural and spiritual background, potential stressors, family needs, and available social supports.

• Provide psychosocial support across various hospital areas including Paediatrics, Pre-Operative Teaching, Same Day Surgery, Post-Operative Care Unit, Intensive Care Unit, and Emergency Department. Participate in the "Til I Sleep" parent-present induction program.

• Conduct universal newborn hearing screenings for both inpatient and outpatient populations.

• Advocate for children and families throughout the hospital, promoting family-centered care and encouraging parental involvement.

• Educate families and interprofessional team members, and lead preparation sessions for children scheduled for elective surgery and their families.

• Foster collaborative care by engaging with all members of the healthcare team and participating in internal committees focused on pediatric and family care.

• Supervise the child life playroom and coordinate therapeutic activities for pediatric patients and their families.

• Contribute to a safe and healthy environment by adhering to hospital policies, health and safety legislation, and the SHN Code of Conduct. Utilize provided protective equipment and report any hazards.

Qualifications:

• Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.

• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Child Life Specialist.

• Strong knowledge of child development from birth to 16 years.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

• Commitment to exceptional customer service when interacting with patients, families, colleagues, volunteers, and the public.

• Alignment with SHN's values and dedication to fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.

• Ethical conduct and appreciation for the diversity of SHN's patient, staff, and community populations.

• Consistent record of excellent performance and attendance.

Accommodation and Diversity Statement:
Scarborough Health Network (SHN) embraces and celebrates our community's unique multicultural heritage and diversity. SHN is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a culture of inclusiveness and diversity reflecting our diverse patients, staff and community alike. 
We are committed to fostering an environment of equity and inclusivity where every person can work and receive care safely, openly and honestly. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, nation of origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital or family status, belief system, or other factors related to one's personal identity and/or values. 
We are committed to providing barrier-free and accessible employment practices in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Should you require accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please make them known when contacted and we will work with you to meet your needs.
 

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