Child Life Practicum

Program Overview

Golisano Children’s Hospital offers a comprehensive practicum program that assists the child life student in gaining experience working in a hospital setting and seeing the application of developmental theory. Under the supervision of certified child life specialists (CCLS), practicum students will have opportunities to observe a CCLS in the clinical role, become more independent in planning play-based patient interactions, and build professional skills that will assist them in planning for internship. We will accept two practicum students for summer 2026.

Program Schedule

Golisano Children’s Hospital currently offers a summer practicum program that consists of 120 hours over the course of 6 weeks. We will be accepting two students from May 26th – July 2nd.

Program Objectives

The goal of the Child Life Practicum is to offer the student a better understanding of the role of the Child Life Specialist. By following a structured curriculum that includes patient observation, interaction and reflection, each student will have the opportunity to build his or her skills in communication, recognize normal responses to stress, and learn about the value of play in a hospital-based program.

Program Curriculum

Students selected for the practicum program will be required to complete the following assignments:

• Article review with summary of how it is applicable to current practices
• Weekly journaling of experiences
• 2 observations and reflections of CCLS in medical play
• 2 observations and reflections of CCLS in other clinical experiences (this may include diagnostic teaching, procedure preparation or support, developmental assessment)
• Create and implement play activities for children at varying developmental levels
• Mock interview
• Completed evaluation by CCLS

Requirements for Application

• Completed at least 40 hours volunteering or working in a group setting with children
• Currently working toward a degree in Child Life or related field
• Completed Child Life Course taught by a Certified Child Life Specialist prior to start of Practicum

Application Process

Each application must include the following materials:

• Application Form
• Resume
• Documentation of completion or enrollment in Child Life Course

Application materials should be scanned and emailed to: CLPracticum@urmc.rochester.edu

Due to the number of applications we receive, incomplete applications will not be considered.

Application Timeline

• All application materials must be received by February 22nd, 2026
• Selected applicants will be contacted for an interview by phone
• Practicum offers will be made by March 20th, 2026