Supporting Little Hearts!
My Path to CCLS
by Piper Richardson
Supporting Little Hearts!
My Path to CCLS
by Piper Richardson
Hi friends! I'm Piper, a current Child Life Student from the Dallas area! I recently graduated from Abilene Christian University with my Bachelor’s in Child & Family Services, concentrating in Child Life and am working on my Master’s in Child Life from TWU! I am passionate about supporting children and families as they navigate the challenges of hospitalization and medical experiences. As an aspiring Certified Child Life Specialist, my goal is to help create a sense of comfort, understanding, and resilience for children in healthcare settings.
With my background and experiences in Child & Family Services, I have gained valuable experience in therapeutic play, coping strategies, and family-centered care. I have worked closely with children of all ages, helping them process medical experiences in developmentally appropriate ways, while creating moments of joy and connection, even during difficult times. I believe in the power of play, preparation, and emotional support to reduce fear and anxiety for pediatric patients. My passion for advocacy and education drives me to provide compassionate, individualized care to every child and family I serve.
I invite you to explore my portfolio, where you’ll find details about my experience, skills, and commitment to the field of Child Life. Thank you for visiting! 🤍
📩 Feel free to connect with me by email to plrich972@gmail.com or at www.linkedin.com/in/piper-richardson120
Boy Scouts of America Youth Protection Training - February, 2024
MinistrySafe Sexual Abuse Awareness Training - April, 2024
Abuse & Assault in Schools Training - January, 2024
CPR - January, 2022
Darkness To Light - November, 2024
Includer!
Woo!
Consistency!
Positivity!
Achiever!
Therapeutic play techniques
Communication with children & families
Advocacy and family-centered care
Coping strategies for hospitalization
Knowledge of child development theories
Emotional intelligence & empathy
Cultural competency & inclusion
Interdisciplinary collaboration
Bereavement & grief support
Program development & implementation
I value respect for diverse cultural practices and beliefs.
I believe it is essential to honor the cultural traditions and values of each family, even if they differ from my own perspectives.
I value honesty and transparency.
I believe that children have the right to receive truthful information about their situation in a developmentally appropriate way.
I value inclusivity in family structures.
I believe in embracing and supporting all forms of family systems, including single-parent households, LGBTQ+ families, blended families, and nontraditional guardians.
I value advocating for the emotional well-being of the child.
I believe my role includes ensuring that children feel safe, supported, and heard throughout their medical journey.
I value open communication and collaboration.
I believe that building strong, trusting relationships with families through clear and compassionate communication is critical to providing effective care.
Heavenly Father,
I come before You with a heart full of gratitude and hope as I prepare for my future career as a Child Life Specialist. Thank You for placing this calling on my heart—to serve, comfort, and uplift children and families in times of uncertainty and hardship. I ask for Your wisdom, patience, and strength as I walk this journey, that I may be a light to those in need.
Equip me with the knowledge and compassion to meet each child and family with grace and understanding. Help me to be a source of comfort, joy, and peace in their lives, reflecting Your love through my actions and words. Give me the strength to face difficult moments with courage and the ability to bring hope even in the hardest of times.
I lift up every child I will encounter—those who are hurting, scared, or facing challenges beyond their years. Wrap them in Your love and protection, bringing them healing and comfort. I pray for their families, that they may find support, encouragement, and the strength to walk their journey with faith and resilience.
Lord, let my work be a vessel for Your goodness. May I always remain humble, seeking Your guidance in every situation. Let my heart remain open to learning and growing, and may I never forget the true purpose of this calling—to serve others with love and kindness.
In Jesus’ precious name, I pray. Amen. 💕