Child Life Practicum in Cape Town

During my four-week live-on-site practicum in Cape Town, South Africa, I experienced significant personal and professional growth. The practicum challenged me to be flexible and constantly be thinking. I observed a certified child life specialist (CCLS) educating children and families about medical procedures, providing trauma-informed care, and offering preparation and support for procedures. The CCLS guided post-procedural play in both outpatient and multiple inpatient settings in a developmentally appropriate and trauma-informed manner. When appropriate, I supported children and families through caregiver respite, normalization play, and post-procedural play. I learned and practiced communicating with children and families from diverse backgrounds, which led me to examine my biases, identify areas for growth, and establish personal and professional boundaries. I learned to grow from feedback, be flexible, and approach new situations with respect and confidence. Our group of 18 started out as strangers, but we left with lifelong friends with many shared experiences.

It is an experience that will stay with me for so long and taught me so many valuable things pertaining to child life. It was amazing to make friends with the same passions as me and the mentorship I received and still receive after the trip from my preceptor is incredibly uplifting and crucial to my journey.

My favorite pre-internship experience in Cape Town with Connect-123 was amazing! I had a great time learning under the supervision of my preceptor at two different hospitals in the Western Cape. I also got to experience some amazing sights that South Africa has to offer. This pre-internship was like no other and I would definitely recommend this experience for anyone in the Child Life field