Special needs children require very special nannies. Special needs nannies need to have the correct qualifications and experience. You will be required to work alongside other professionals on a daily basis and help the child progress with their suggestions and assistance. You may be required to keep behaviourall or food journals to monitor progress. Sometimes positions involve working just on a one-one basis with a child with special needs, you may also be required to care for siblings also. If a child's special need are severe, it is likely that any other duties will not be involved. Your role may be based in the home, others are in schools or nurseries where you might shadow the child and give extra support.
A good special needs nanny will be aware of a child's limitations, but also help them reach their full potential. Remember the child you are looking after is a child. It is secondary that they have special needs. Special needs children can have a range of specific problems ranging from developmental Disabilities, autistic spectrum disorders, physical disabilities, ADD and ADHD and behavioural challenges.

A special needs nanny must have the following qualities:

• Must be mature, reliable, responsible and have excellent communication skills
• Must feel passionately about helping others achieve their highest potential!
• One year experience working with people who have physical and/or developmental disabilities. (We prefer that this experience be consecutive and recent.)
• Experience working with children
• Excellent references
• Ability to make a one year commitment to a hiring family. (Please note: These positions can last much longer!)
• Ability to pass our rigorous screening process, which includes a criminal background check.

There are many programs that can assist a special needs nannies to be successful in her role.
Applied behavioural analysis ABA
Please see behavioral approaches to read more