How to Find a Qualified Nanny for Care of Special Needs Children

For parents of special needs children, deciding on childcare options can be a lengthy process. Special needs children often necessitate the hiring of one or more types of caregivers. Some are placed into licensed care centers, while others are cared for at home by qualified nannies. The benefit of hiring a qualified nanny is that a live-in or live-out caregiver can easily provide one-on-one care for your child in a familiar setting. A nanny will get to know your child's specific needs and can better plan the day's activities around your schedule.

These days, there are many services meant to assist you in your search for a nanny. You could search for your nanny using an online database, or you could contact an old-fashioned nanny agency. Online nanny databases are more affordable than nanny agencies, but are not geared towards your specific local area. However, both methods can save you time and effort. Be sure to check out the service before deciding on a nanny. Ask how long they have been in business, and inquire about their nanny selection and screening process. This will help ensure you don't get caught up in a scam. Once you find a nanny service that suits your needs, let them know about your child's disability. The nannies you select will come to you pre-screened and qualified for your special needs child. The downside of these nanny screening services is that the cost can sometimes be prohibitive, ranging from $1000 to $6000 for a successful placement.

If you feel using agencies or online databases is too impersonal, you may wish to find a qualified nanny on your own. This is the cheapest method, but can also be the most time-consuming. You can do this by searching the local paper or checking out Craigslist. However, before entrusting your child to the care of a nanny, be sure to do some research and prepare some interview questions for prospective applicants. Searching for a nanny on your own means you will have to complete the screening process yourself.

The interview portion of the nanny selection process is integral to finding the right caregiver. Many of the questions that are applicable to all nannies will apply to a special needs nanny, but this interview should go into more detail than the average childcare interview. Make sure the nanny is prepared to accommodate any physical disabilities your child may have. Take the time to ask about the nanny's previous experience with special needs children. Which developmental stage(s) does the nanny have the most experience with? Has the nanny completed any sensitivity training? Make sure the nanny is willing to undergo any additional training she may need to acquaint herself with your child's specific needs. Does the nanny seem passionate about special needs children? Bring your child into the interview to meet the applicant. The focus should be on the child as a person, not just his or her disabilities.

It is also important to inform the nanny of what to do in an emergency situation. Ask the prospective applicant if they have ever dealt with a medical emergency, and then ask about the outcome of the situation. Provide the nanny with your contact information as well as the names and locations of any prescription medications the child may need in the case of an emergency.

Finally, go with your heart. If you have a bad feeling about a caregiver, trust your instincts. If the childcare provider seems cold or detached, chances are that this is not the nanny for you.