Artifacts from Course Work
HDFS 3010 – Child Development in Early and Middle Childhood
Visual Narrative
I completed a Visual Narrative Project where I connected child development concepts to real-life examples and personal experiences. I chose topics like Piaget’s stages, family structure, and emotional development, and explained them using visuals and simple definitions. This helped me practice breaking down complex ideas in ways that are easy to understand. As a future Child Life Specialist, I’ll need to explain medical and emotional topics to kids and families, so this project helped prepare me for that part of the role.
HDFS 3500 – Hospitalized Children and Their Families
Presentation on Epilepsy
I worked with a group to create a presentation on epilepsy in young children, focusing on ages 3–6. Our goal was to explain the condition, common treatments, and how Child Life Specialists can help children cope with the emotional and developmental challenges it brings. I gained experience researching medical conditions, using medical play strategies, and explaining procedures in ways children can understand. This assignment helped me think from the perspective of a Child Life Specialist, where understanding a child’s emotional needs and offering developmentally appropriate support are key. It also strengthened my teamwork and communication skills, both of which are critical in hospital settings.
HDFS 3500 – Hospitalized Children and Their Families
Children's Book Project
I created a children’s book titled “What Happens When You Get a Special Tube?” which explains an NG tube procedure in clear, comforting language. The purpose of this assignment was to practice using educational tools that help children prepare for medical experiences. I developed skills in visual storytelling, child-friendly communication, and emotional reassurance. This project helped me better understand how to use creative tools to support children through stressful procedures. As a future Child Life Specialist, I’ll rely on these same techniques to ease fear, build trust, and make medical situations less overwhelming for kids.
HDFS 3461 – Effective Guidance and Interaction with Young Children Lab
Weekly Observation Portfolio
I completed a weekly observation portfolio based on my work with a 4-year-old child at the Auburn University Early Learning Center. The assignment required me to track his development across physical, emotional, and cognitive domains while reflecting on how I could support him. Through this experience, I gained strong observation and documentation skills, and I learned how to recognize behavioral patterns and respond with empathy and intention. These skills are directly applicable to my professional goal, where observing and responding to children’s behaviors in real time will be key to offering meaningful support during hospitalization or stressful events.
HDFS 3460 – Effective Guidance and Interaction with Young Children
Final Child Assessment Paper
I wrote a final child assessment paper where I observed a 4-year-old throughout the semester, developed two individualized goals, and collaborated with both the lead teacher and the child’s parents. The purpose of the assignment was to help students learn how to create tailored developmental support plans based on real observations. I gained confidence in setting appropriate goals, adjusting strategies based on feedback, and communicating effectively with both professionals and families. This assignment gave me valuable experience in seeing the “whole child”—something I will need to do daily in the child life field as I support children with unique strengths, needs, and family dynamics.