That Special Needs Touch
Posted by: Bob Marcinuk
J.J.
Joyce is just one of those people that you just have no choice but to like. She
comes across as a bit shy and unassuming at first glance but a brief
conversation will quickly set you straight.
She’s a woman of great diversity of interests and just so happens to be
good at them all! In respect of her modesty, we won’t even mention her world
class salsa dancing competitions and all that comes with it. But, we will embarrass JJ a bit by
sharing her exceptional skills as a childcare professional here with us at
Nannies As Needed.
JJ
has a Masters of Education degree from Southern CT State University and has
been engaging and caring for children for over twenty years. Her skills,
kindness and compassion are quite transparent and most impressive, particularly
to new parents. When asked about this,
JJ simply shares that “ My ability lies in engaging children of all ages to
explore their world and to learn through responsible play. I use whatever materials are at hand to
create opportunities for children to develop their sense of discovery and
unique thought process”.
When
nudged to go on, JJ said that “I enjoy using my extensive knowledge of Child
Development to help each and every child build their self-confidence and
encourage their curiosity. I understand
the need to get down on the floor to play and engage them in fun and
educational activities”. It’s apparent
to us that because multi-tasking is so natural to her, it’s relatively easy for
JJ to push the edges of her creativity yet maintain a safe environment.
Where
JJ truly amasses rave reviews is from those families with special needs
children…not one but all. So naturally,
it begged us to ask her, just what does it take to be a good special need
sitter? Here is JJ’s response:
JJ’s views on being a good special
needs sitter
“What does it takes to be a “good”
special needs sitter? My first reaction is why settle for “good”??
First and foremost, be
prepared! That will give you the confidence to enjoy the experience of caring
for any special needs child.
Do your homework and
learn as much as you can about the child and the disability or challenges she
faces. A meet-and-greet is highly recommended. This is the best way to let her
get familiar with you and gives you the opportunity to watch her reaction to
you. Don't be alarmed if it's initially a negative reaction! The other, and
equally important, advantage of a meet-and-greet is that it allows you to
observe how the parents interact with her. Imitating those interactions are
your best tool for entering the child's comfort zone.
Nannies always ask
questions!
We routinely ask about
allergies, medications, ICE contacts, favorite foods, toys or blankets for
soothing, and, of course, any behavioral concerns and how do the parents
typically handle them.
There are only a few
extra questions to ask:
What is the best way
to communicate with her? What will she do in return to communicate her needs?
Are there physical
limitations or safety concerns?
Then go ahead and have
some fun together! Stick to the child's routine, modify your words to fit her
language skills, follow her lead in the activities you share, stay calm if she
becomes upset or flustered, let her feel safe and secure in your care.
Now, honestly, isn't
that pretty much how you'd approach any child in your care?”
JJ’s insights are
pretty well grounded and are readily adaptable to most special needs
situations. Perhaps confidence comes by simply being willing to try and in taking
satisfaction from all interactions as positive experiences. It’s amazing what a difference a little kindness,
sensitivity and understanding can make with all children and with JJ, it just comes naturally.
