What kind of person?

I believe it takes a special kind of person to become a Child Life Specialist, or to take on any career in the realm of working with very sick children. It is a heartbreaking job, but without it, where would we be? If not me, then who? That is what I always tell people when they ask why I chose such an emotionally draining career. How can I not do it? That is my response to the question of " How will you do it?" I suppose the key characteristic of someone who decides to become a CCLS is a deep love for children, and a desire to see all children prosper and develop correctly. The Child Life Council has a wonderful list of characteristics of a Child Life Specialist. Some of the items on this list include; enjoys working with children and parents, can change language and demeanor to fit the development and emotional state of the child, and can multitask well. When I read this list, I found myself asking if I met each of the criteria, and with the exception of being able to describe a variety of medical procedures at this point, I certainly do. I am being called to do this, and I will do what i need to do to get there.

So I ask all of you, what traits do you think a person needs to have in order to do this work? How important is it that the person be strong emotionally, and yet able to connect deeply? Do you have these characteristics?