Watch the Video
Listen in to our education session on working with children with special needs!
Key highlights in the recording:
Autism @ 3:54
ADHD @ 9:42
Down Syndrome @ 13:37
Guest Caregiver Speaker @ 18:06
Caregiver Discussion @ 29:21
Here are some key take-aways from the recording:
Always make sure to follow guidance and schedules provided by the parents.
Be empathetic - Everyone wants to feel heard, especially a person who frequently feels misunderstood and a little out of step with others.
Make them feel safe – new caregivers can be scary for children who thrive on routine so do what you can early on to help them feel comfortable and safe around you. If you need some help forming that connection, ask parents for advice on how to do it.
Documented Resources Utilized in Presentation
Sites used to create education session content
Internal Resource
Special needs: Defining and understanding the 4 types - The term “special needs” is used to describe a person with a physical or emotional difficulty or difference that requires more assistance or specialized services.
Relevant External Resources
We also included some additional external resources with ideas for fun and appropriate activities for children with autism, ADHD and down syndrome. These articles were compiled by Care.com but are not created by Care.com.
It is important to remember that there is no one size fits all activity. You should come prepared with ideas in your back pocket, but always base activities off of conversations with parents and interactions with the kids.
Autism:
ADHD:
Down Syndrome: