Child Life Specialist Interview Questions

Tell us about a time when you had to deal with a difficult or challenging child. How did you handle the situation?

INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

Sample answer to the question:

I once had to deal with a difficult child when I was working as a child life specialist in a hospital. The child was scared and resistant to any medical procedures. I handled the situation by creating a calm and safe environment for the child. I spoke to the child in a gentle and reassuring tone, explaining each step of the procedure in simple terms. I used distraction techniques, such as blowing bubbles or telling stories, to divert the child's attention. I also involved the child's parents in the process, encouraging them to hold the child's hand and provide comfort. By taking the time to understand the child's fears and providing emotional support, I was able to successfully complete the procedure.

Here is a more solid answer:

During my time as a child life specialist, there was a challenging situation where I had to work with a child who was extremely anxious about a medical procedure. I began by taking the time to build trust and rapport with the child, engaging in therapeutic play activities to create a positive relationship. Once the child felt comfortable and secure, I gradually introduced the concept of the procedure, using age-appropriate explanations and visuals. I also involved the child's parents in the process, providing them with resources and techniques to support their child's emotional well-being. Additionally, I collaborated with the healthcare team to develop a personalized plan to address the child's specific needs and anxieties. By utilizing my knowledge of child development and employing therapeutic techniques, I successfully guided the child through the procedure, ensuring their emotional well-being throughout the process.

Why is this a more solid answer?

The solid answer expands on the basic answer by providing more specific details about the candidate's approach to dealing with a difficult child. It demonstrates their ability to develop and facilitate therapeutic play programs, proficiency in child development and psychological assessment techniques, and strong written and verbal communication skills. However, it could be further improved by incorporating examples of collaboration within a multidisciplinary team and showcasing the candidate's ability to work in a fast-paced, stressful environment.

An example of a exceptional answer:

As a child life specialist, I encountered a challenging situation with a child who had a traumatic past and exhibited aggressive behavior. Understanding the importance of empathetic connection, I took the time to build trust and establish a strong therapeutic relationship with the child. I utilized my expertise in child development and psychology to identify the underlying causes of the child's behavior and developed a personalized plan to address their emotional needs. Collaborating with the multidisciplinary team, I facilitated a comprehensive approach that included play therapy, art therapy, and counseling sessions. Additionally, I provided guidance and support to the child's family, equipping them with strategies to manage challenging behaviors at home. Through consistent intervention and patient advocacy, I witnessed a remarkable transformation in the child's emotional well-being, leading to improved coping mechanisms and overall adjustment.

Why is this an exceptional answer?

The exceptional answer showcases the candidate's ability to handle a challenging child situation in a comprehensive and empathetic manner. It goes beyond addressing the candidate's skills mentioned in the job description by highlighting their proficiency in play therapy, art therapy, and counseling sessions. The answer also emphasizes the candidate's ability to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team and provide support to the child's family. It presents a compelling example of the candidate's expertise in crisis intervention and providing emotional support.

How to prepare for this question:

Familiarize yourself with child development theories and techniques, as well as psychological assessment methods.

Research different types of therapeutic activities and interventions that can be utilized in working with children in a healthcare setting.

Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully handled difficult or challenging child situations and explain the strategies you used.

Practice effective verbal and non-verbal communication techniques, as they are crucial in establishing trust and rapport with children.

Demonstrate your ability to work in a fast-paced, stressful environment by discussing situations where you maintained composure and adaptability during challenging circumstances.

What are interviewers evaluating with this question?