child life practicum

• To gain an introduction to the Child Life profession in general, and to become acquainted with the Child Life Department at Dayton Children’s
• To have the opportunity to observe interactions with patients on a one-to-one basis and in group situations.
• To experience an accepting, non-threatening environment to promote healthy interactions between child, staff, and family.
• To gain an initial acquaintance with the needs of hospitalized children and to observe creative and flexible programming in meeting these needs.
• To observe advocacy for children and families in their interaction with the health care system.
• To see children prepared medical experiences through the use of books, medical equipment and play.

• Completion of 100 volunteer hours in the hospital prior to application
• Two letters of recommendation
• Daily journal of hospital experiences
• Weekly journal reading. Include short summary in your journal.
• Plan and implement group activity time
• Observation of procedures
• Attend staff meetings, patient planning rounds, in-services
• Developmental observations

• Medical Play: Individual and group play experiences centered on a patient's hospitalization.
• Preparation: Individual teaching and play experience provided to patients regarding specific medical treatments and procedures.
• Coping and distraction: Techniques and activities offered to patients and families during hospitalization and specific medical experiences to assist with comfort and control.
• Diversional and recreational play: Programming for normalization offered to patients and siblings throughout hospitalization.

These books are available from the Association of Child Life Professionals or can be ordered through Amazon.com.

• Gaynard, L. et al. (1990). Psychosocial Care of Children in Hospitals: A clinical practice manual from the ACCH child life research project. Bethesda, MD: Association for the Care of Children's Health.
• Bolig, R. Mahan, C. (2005) Meeting Children's Psychosocial Needs Across the Healthcare Continuum Austin, Texas: Pro.Ed.
• Thompson, Richard. (2009) The Handbook of Child Life, A Guide for Pediatric Psychosocial Care, Charles C, Thomas, Publisher, Springfield, IL