Expected Annual Pay (Texas)
$60,000
Average salary range
Job Title
Child Life Specialist
Job Outlook (Texas)
+14%
Employment growth
Level of Education Required
Bachelor’s degree
Minimum requirement
Credentials or Licenses Required
Professional certification required (Child Life Specialist certification)
Licenses / Certificates
Work Experience Typically Required
Experience working with children and families through volunteer or paid positions in settings such as hospitals, child care programs, schools, camps, early intervention programs, and community youth organizations. Experience supporting children with diverse developmental, medical, emotional, or behavioral needs is also commonly expected.
Related experience needed
What is this role responsible for day to day?
A child life specialist supports children and families coping with medical experiences by addressing emotional, developmental, and psychosocial needs. Day‑to‑day responsibilities may include:
- Preparing children for medical procedures using developmentally appropriate education
- Providing play‑based and therapeutic interventions to reduce stress and anxiety
- Supporting families during hospitalization, illness, or treatment
- Collaborating with medical teams to advocate for child‑centered care
- Assessing children’s coping and developmental needs in healthcare settings
- Documenting interventions and progress in clinical records
Career Snapshots
Explore different career paths within education and find the one that fits your passion
Jordan
Jordan transitioned into the child life specialist role after working in Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) and completing clinical training focused on pediatric healthcare settings. In his day‑to‑day work, Jordan prioritizes helping children understand and cope with medical experiences through play, preparation, and emotional support. He plans to stay in this role long-term as team lead.
Amelia
Amelia moved into child life after working in a long time in early childhood education, where she developed strong skills in supporting children’s emotional regulation and development. She now applies that background in hospital settings, partnering closely with families and medical teams to reduce stress and promote positive coping. She plans to stay in this role until she retires.
Alex
Alex entered the field after gaining experience in healthcare support roles and completing specialized coursework in child life. In practice, Alex focuses on advocating for child‑centered care while helping families navigate challenging medical situations with compassion and clear communication. She plans to go back to school to become a pediatric nurse practitioner.
What are some skills or personal traits that people in this role typically have?
People in this role are empathetic, patient, and highly skilled in child development. They communicate effectively with children, families, and healthcare professionals and are comfortable working in emotionally demanding environments.
What are some jobs that people had earlier in their careers?
People in this role often previously worked as:
People in this role often previously worked as:
- Child Development or Human Services Staff
- Healthcare or Hospital Support Staff
- Early Childhood Educator or Youth Program Staff
What are some jobs that people in this role have later in their careers?
With experience, people in this role may move into:
With experience, people in this role may move into:
- Clinical Supervisor or Program Coordinator Roles
- Healthcare Administration or Education Roles
- Academic, Training, or Advocacy Positions