Child and Youth Development Specialist

The Child and Youth Development Specialist (CYDS) works under the supervision of the Charge Nurse and nursing unit manager. Child and Youth Development Specialist provides ongoing observation, therapeutic support and supervision to a variety of children and youth with neuropsychiatric difficulties in the inpatient tertiary care program at the RAH. The Child and Youth Development Specialist are responsible for implementing a behavior plan specific to each child/adolescent’s neurodevelopmental difficulties. Child and Youth Development Specialists also attend conferences. In this position, the CYDS acts as a milieu therapist on the unit, offering evening groups and activities for the young people in hospital. This position has transitioned to Recovery Alberta effective September 1, 2024. By applying on this posting, if you are the successful candidate, you agree to and will become an employee of Recovery Alberta.

As a Child & Youth Development Specialist (CYDS), you will provide assessment, treatment and follow-up to children and youth in the community, educational system, and/or hospital setting who are at risk of or have a disability, and/or have a significant developmental delay. Using a family-centered care approach, you will create, implement and update family service plans specific to child/youth needs, adapting interventions/activities as appropriate. As a CYDS, you will observe, identify and report child developmental or behaviour difficulties and make recommendations to the appropriate interdisciplinary team. You will liaise with and provide referrals to other disciplines and external agencies as appropriate. You will provide information and education regarding child/youth development to parents, education providers, other interprofessionals and the community. You will support family funding and education/services placement applications and maintain printed resources and equipment for child and adolescent programs.

Completion of bachelor's degree in Child & Youth Care or a related field or equivalent education and experience.

1-2 years' experience working with children in a mental health setting. NVCI certification. Basic CPR.

Connect Care experience preferred.