Careers
Burn Care Child Life Specialist
Child life specialists bring calm, creativity, and clarity to children and families navigating the physical and emotional journey of burn treatment. Through therapeutic play, education, and emotional support, they help young patients cope, heal, and find moments of childhood amidst medical care.
Explore Membership
Typical Work Environments
Hospital burn centers (often verified by the ABA)
Pediatric and adult burn units
Outpatient burn clinics and follow-up centers
Rehabilitation facilities for pediatric burn survivors
Burn survivor camps and community reintegration programs
Key Responsibilities
Use play, art, and storytelling to help children process medical experiences
Educate patients and families about procedures and recovery
Support coping strategies during dressing changes and surgeries
Advocate for each child’s emotional and developmental needs
Collaborate with nurses, physicians, therapists, and social workers
Facilitate peer support and group activities for young survivors
What Makes a Successful Child Life Specialist?
Burn injuries can be frightening and painful, especially for children. Bun care child life specialists bring light to these moments, helping young patients and families build resilience, understand treatment, and find hope in healing.
ABA Membership Benefits for Child Life Specialists
Access to burn care guidelines and research relevant to psychosocial care
Networking through Special Interest Groups and professional communities
Opportunities to present or collaborate on education sessions at the ABA Annual Meeting
Discounted courses and certifications, including Advanced Burn Life Support® (ABLS)
Support for interdisciplinary practice and lifelong learning
Learn More
Helping children feel seen, heard, and empowered during burn care is incredibly meaningful. Being part of the ABA community keeps me connected to new research and peers who share that mission.