Looking for an afterschool babysitter for a 7 yearold autisic son and a 6 year old typical girl.in my home.?

Question

My son is nonverbal and is currently being trained to use the bathroom. He is in school until 2:30. In the summer he is in school for 6 weeks mon - thurs . My daughter will be entering 1st grade in sept. I need someone who is very patient, great with autistic children and has great references.

Answer 1

First of all this is a horrible place to do it!

You should have social services provide care for your son and put your daughter into a regular daycare or with whomever you choose.

If you aren't already receiving SSI for your son, take a copy of his recent evaluations stating he has autism and such to the Social Security office in your area.  They should provide a one-on-one community assistant to help teach and care for your son.  They pay.  You choose who the individual is.  (This process varies from state to state, so I'll leave it at that.)

Edit- A seven year old with autism who is working on potty training and basic communication should qualify for SSI.  The length of the waiting list will depend entirely on the state's funding and red tape.

Answer 2

It's a little alte now-but are you near any colleges-you can put a classified in their school newspaper for a special ed or pyschology major or nurse, etc.....

otehrwise-try

www.craigslist.org

social services agencies may be able to help-but there are often waiting lists-

are there any autism support groups/agencies you can contact?

Answer 3

First of all, just because a child has autism doesn't mean he/she will automatically qualify for SSI and the state will pay for a babysitter.  There may be some respite care services available, but these are usually very limited and the waiting list can be long.

There are several resources you can use to help you find a sitter.  Start with your child's teacher and school.  There may be a teacher or assistant who needs extra money over the summer, and an added benefit is that they have already had a background check.  They may also know other people, such as interns and volunteers, who may be interested.

You can also check with your doctor.  They may know of people who have some training and would consider the job.

Is there a college nearby?  College students, especially education majors, may be available in the afternoons, and they have some training.   You could also try a local high school.  Many have child care programs and future educator clubs, and with some training an older high school student may be excellent for your son.

Your local hospital and Red Cross may also be able to help.  The ones in our area offer babysitting classes and then keep lists of people who have taken the classes.

There are some day cares that will take special needs children.  In fact, some elementary schools have on site day cares that are relatively inexpensive.  Depending on your son's needs, they may be able to help.

Our county also has a special summer day camp for children with special needs.  Yours may have one, too.  Check with the parks and recreation department of your county and city.

Make sure you tell any day care or sitter about the bathroom issue.  Not only will you need their help to maintain a consistent program, many commercial day cares will not take children who aren't potty trained, which may limit your choices, but not telling now will have major consequences later.  Good luck.