CACLL endorses the CLC certification process.

“Child life certification fosters uniform and improved standards of practice and ethical conduct while it enhances the status and credibility of the profession. It validates professional knowledge and provides a sense of professional pride and achievement. In addition, child life certification provides a mechanism to protect the general public from untrained individuals entering a therapeutic relationship with children and families."¹

Child Life Professional Certification²

Through the Child Life Professional Certification Examination, individuals may pursue achieving the CCLS – a professional designation for child life specialists. The requirements for certification are based on academic and internship experience and successful completion of an examination process.

Established in 1986, the CCLS credential was developed to increase the proficiency of child life professionals by identifying a body of knowledge; establishing a level of knowledge and performance necessary for certification; and increasing the value of practitioners to their employers.

A Certifying Committee designated by CLC governs the program and includes representatives from various child life settings. The Certifying Committee seeks to represent the diversity that exists within the profession and serve as a voice for stakeholders who have an interest in maintaining high standards in child life.

Benefits of Certification

• Feelings of personal accomplishment and satisfaction
• Validating specialized knowledge
• Indicating professional growth
• Attainment of a practice standard
• Personal challenge
• Professional commitment
• Credibility
• Can mean increased salary (Salary Survey shows as much as $5000 more for CCLS)