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Child Life Internship
Child Life Internship at Renown
Spring 2027 Internship – Now Accepting Applications
Spring 2027 internship is slated to begin in late January and will extend for 16-weeks and successful completion of internship curriculum, learning experiences, and 600 clinical hours.
How to Apply:
- Complete the Internship Readiness Common Application and download the application after it is filled out. Candidates will start the Eligibility Assessment as part of the application.
- Email the completed application to Amanda.Cleary@renown.org
- The ACLP Internship Readiness Common Application will be reviewed by the child life team and candidates will be contacted for interviews in concordance with the CLCC dates, as outlined on the ACLP website.
- You will receive courtesy receipt of application. Offer date is Oct. 6, 2026.
Key Dates:
- Application Deadline: Sept. 4, 2026
- Offer Date: Oct. 6, 2026 (Applicants will receive a courtesy receipt of their application)
- Internship Start Date: Jan. 2027
- Duration: 15-16 weeks (includes 600 clinical hours and required curriculum completion)
Prerequisites:
- Education: Applicants must have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in child development, or a closely related field, and have completed or be in progress with the core 10 required courses for certification by the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP).
- Experience: Applicants must have experience working with children and families in healthcare or non-healthcare settings and this should be expanded on within the Internship Readiness Common Application.
- Coursework: All coursework required for certification, including a course taught by a Certified Child Life Specialist, must be completed by the start of internship.
Ideal candidates will demonstrate:
- Strong foundation in child development
- Effective communication skills
- Flexibility and adaptability
- Ability to advocate for their own learning needs
Internship learning opportunities include:
- Providing developmentally appropriate explanations of the healthcare setting
- Preparing children and families for stressful events in various units
- Offering coping strategies and support
- Facilitating expressive outlets through play and therapeutic activities
In addition to direct clinical work, interns will have the opportunity to engage in special events, donations, and educational programming, ensuring they leave the internship as job-ready child life specialists.
The program follows the ACLP curriculum modules and includes assignments, reflective journaling, and ongoing feedback and support to maximize each intern's growth and development throughout their experience.
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