The Child Life Code of Ethics provides a comprehensive framework for Certified Child Life Specialists (CCLSs) to guide their professional conduct and ensure the well-being and protection of children and their families in potentially stressful or traumatic situations. The Child Life Code of Ethics consists of two parts: The Principles and The Rules. The Principles are recommendations for professional ethical behavior that then become the cornerstone of decision-making (think guidelines). The Rules are a description of best practices (think implementation of principles). Any violation of this code can lead to disciplinary actions, which are managed by the Child Life Certification Commission Ethics Committee. This code serves as a guide for ethical decision-making and behavior within the profession, ensuring the best possible care for children and their families.
Read the full Child Life Code of Ethics
CCLSs that violate the Child Life Code of Ethics shall be subject to disciplinary action. Policies and procedures related to ethics violations can be found here. Public Notice of Disqualifications Permanently disqualified from certification: Victoria C. Hartman Questions? Email certification@childlife.org
Submit an Ethics Complaint Form
The Social Networking Guidelines were created by the Association of Child Life Professionals’ (ACLP’s) Web and Online Networking Advisory Committee (WONAC) in collaboration with the Ethics Committee of the Child Life Certification Commission (CLCC). These guidelines were established to provide guidance to Certified Child Life Specialists (CCLSs) in establishing and maintaining professional therapeutic relationships with children* and families specifically within social media interactions.
Read the Guidelines