Characteristics of a Typical Child Life Specialist

• Enjoys working with children and parents
• Has excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Can adjust language and demeanor to the developmental and emotional state of the child
• Works well with a variety of health care professionals and other support people
• Can manage the emotional stress inherent in working with children who have life-threatening diseases
• Can manage a variety of tasks simultaneously
• Is able to explain complex medical procedures and information to all ages (http://www.mayo.edu/mshs/careers/child-life-specialist).