Kohl's Child Life Program - Internship Opportunities

Thank you for your interest in the Kohl's Child Life internship program at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. Internships are offered during the spring and fall semesters totaling a 16-week or 640 hour commitment.

Interns in the Kohl's Child Life program participate in various educational and skill-based opportunities designed to help students transition into the role of a child life professional. Some of the specific areas of focus include: medical play, surgical and procedural preparation, documentation, planning and supervising developmentally appropriate activities (in a group setting and on an individual basis) and working under the philosophy of family-centered care. Additional experiences are provided through in-services, case study development and multidisciplinary rounds. Our program provides learning opportunities that encompass each age and developmental level of a child.

Kohl's Child Life Program Internship Materials

• Kohl's Child Life Program Internship Application
• Internship Requirements
• Kohl's Child Life Program Recommendation Form
• Student Responsibilities and Internship Expectations
• Required and Recommended Readings

 Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What major fields of study would allow me to be considered for an internship experience?
A. A Bachelor's or Master's degree in a variety of areas such as Child Life, Child Development, Sociology, Psychology, Human Development, Therapeutic Recreation, Counseling, or other related fields with an emphasis on child development and/or working with children under stress.

Q. Where can I gain more information about child life as a career?            
A. The Child Life Council (www.childlife.org) has a wealth of information about child life including: educational information, the role of a child life specialist, where they work, job placement, average pay by location, etc.

Q. What are the coursework requirements for an internship?
A. Required and recommended coursework is listed under the Internship Requirements and Important Information.  When applying for this internship we require a copy of the Child Life Council's Course Work Review (via the Child Life Council website) to be considered.  

Q. Do you offer a practicum?
A. Currently, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin does not offer a practicum experience for students.

Q. How can I volunteer? Will I be able to volunteer under the supervision of a CCLS?
A. Opportunities are available to volunteer under the supervision of a CCLS. If you are interested in volunteering at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin please visit our Volunteer Opportunities for more information.

Q. When should I apply for an internship?
A.   The Kohl's Child Life Program follows the guidelines for application as recommended by the Child Life Council (see above).

Q. When do I take the exam-before or after the internship is complete?
A. After the internship is complete. The internship supervisor will sign and verify that all standards for entry level clinical competence have been achieved. The Clinical Experience Verification form with the required signature will be necessary to provide to the Council to establish eligibility to sit for the exam.

Q. Are internship opportunities available for independent students who have graduated and are no longer affiliated with a university?
A. Internship opportunities are available for independent students. Students who have graduated should contact an academic supervisor to determine an educational plan, as a formal contract with a university is needed before placement.

Q. Is there a fee to complete a Child Life internship?
A. There is no fee required for the internship but tuition fees may vary depending on your college or university.

Q.  If I am from out-of-town, do you provide housing?
A. Housing is not provided, but links to resources can be given to help in your search.

For additional information, contact:

Lori Gottwein, CCLS
Child Life student coordinator
(414) 266-3095
lgottwein@chw.org