This post is for families that are looking to hire an amazing nanny. At Hazelton Clive, we have the answer to all your needs!
Parents are always looking for someone reliable to take care of their children when they are not around. However, when it comes to special needs children, parents become extra cautious as, in this case, they need someone who is experienced in taking care of special needs children. They want someone equipped to handle the challenges that come with these children and keep them safe. It is not a job for your next-door teenage babysitter. For this job, you will need a live-in nanny who will meet the particular requirements of a special child.
A good nanny agency in London will help you find a nanny housekeeper who would be mindful of the limitations of special needs children and be an expert in helping them reach their full potential. The nanny that you will find through the nanny agency will be qualified, reliable and experienced when handling children with meltdowns, self-injurious behaviours, and temper issues. The agencies have a special section for special needs nannies in London. You can interview these nannies and choose the one you find most suitable for the job. Through a reliable nanny agency in London, you will get many options for nanny housekeeper.
Only finding a live-in nanny for your special needs child is not enough. You also need to make sure you have picked the best nanny in London for your child’s needs. When choosing a nanny from the nanny agency, make sure that they possess the below-mentioned skill sets, which are essential for the safety of your children.
- Good communication skills
A nanny needs to have strong communication skills to communicate well with parents to understand the needs of their special needs child. Many times differently-abled children cannot express themselves; in this case, the nanny housekeeper should be experienced enough to understand what the child wants. A professional childcarer will also know the tone to use with the children to assert authority. Other than this, they should also be comfortable communicating with the physical and behavioural therapists of the special needs child and giving them effective feedback about the child. By doing this, a nanny can support the development of the child.
- Handling emergencies
Even with all the precautions, children can be involved in an emergency at times. Thus, a reliable nanny in London is quick to react when responding to a crisis. Of course, if it is a serious issue, the nanny should call their employer. Still, the nanny should also know how to handle emergencies with limited knowledge. The nanny’s education and experience can play a part here, as they would help master the skills required for problem-solving.
- Cooking
Not all jobs require a nanny to cook for the kids. However, if you are looking for a live-in nanny, it is normal to expect them to cook for themselves and your child. It would be best to discuss this before hiring the nanny from the nanny agency; however, their salary might change depending on this job. However, if you want a nanny to cook, you should ensure that she cooks healthy and nutritious meals. You also need to ensure that the carer knows the tricks to make a picky child eat their food, so your child is not left hungry.
- Household chores
If you choose a nanny housekeeper, they must know how to keep your house clean and do chores around the house. Even if you do not select a nanny housekeeper, there is basic cleaning that you can expect from all nannies. Helping the child put back his toys after playing or changing their clothes after they spill are some small jobs, which, if taken care of by the nanny, can reduce the parents’ stress.
- First aid
Though you do not need your live-in nanny to be a doctor, it would not hurt if they had basic medical training, especially when handling differently able children, who are more prone to accidents. It is not uncommon for kids to get minor cuts and not serious injuries while playing; after all, it is a part of growing up. However, having a nanny who knows first aid and CPR will give peace of mind to the parents, who would be relaxed knowing that their children are in safe hands.
- Creativity
Children with special needs, like any kid, can quickly lose interest in the activity they are doing. A nanny needs to be creative enough to engage the children in different age-appropriate games, which will also help them learn something new. An experienced nanny in London knows that each child is different; therefore, they tailor their games according to the interests and needs of the child. When working with a differently-abled child, a good nanny will fulfil their primary duties and stress giving an appropriate environment to the child for their growth.
- Patience
Children, especially special needs, can test patience as they are going through a lot they cannot comprehend. Unfortunately, when it comes to special needs children, they are more prone to abuse by a caregiver as in most cases, they cannot understand what is happening to them. In such a case, it becomes more critical for parents to get a nanny from a trusted nanny agency in London, who will never lose their temper when around children. A patient nanny can effectively handle a child’s mood swings without getting aggressive and taking out their anger on the innocent child. She would work closely with the child’s doctors to help them understand their temper and personality, so the doctors can effectively do their job.
There is no shortage of nannies for children; however, if you are parents of a special needs child, you must take extra precautions while hiring a nanny for your children. Visit HazeltonClive, the best nanny agency in London that will help you find a reliable and trustworthy nanny for your special needs children.