Child Life Theory and Practice

Catalog description

This course emphasizes the central role of assessment in child life practice, positioning it as the foundation for all advanced professional skills and practice. Students will learn how assessment guides interventions in stress and coping support, psychological preparation, ethical decision-making, non-pharmacological pain management, interdisciplinary team communication and advocacy. By developing strong assessment skills, students will learn to identify child and family needs, tailor developmentally appropriate interventions, and evaluate outcomes across diverse community and healthcare contexts. The course will also address the six required topics set forth by the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP): (1) Official ACLP documents; (2) Scope of practice; (3) Impact of illness, injury and healthcare on patients and families; (4) Family-centered care; (5) Therapeutic play; and (6) Psychological preparation. May be taught concurrently with CFD 610. Cannot receive credit for both CFD 510 and CFD 610. Prerequisite: admission into the CFD major-Child Life Option; and CFD 354 or concurrent enrollment.