Nanny (Special needs)

About the Role
We are an American family of two mums in South East London seeking an experienced Special Needs Nanny for a long-term role supporting our 8-year-old son, who has a diagnosis of Autism with delayed verbal communication. He currently communicates through echolalia and short sentences. We have an older son with ASD/ADHD whose needs are largely covered by his EHCP; the role focuses on our younger son, though the nanny will occasionally care for both children together.
About Our Son
He is a cheerful, curious boy who loves stories, music, trains, transportation, outdoor adventures, nature, sensory play (sand and water), swimming, and trampolining. He uses echolalia and short sentences to communicate. Speaking can be tiring for him, so we prioritise responding to his non-verbal cues and modelling language during activities. We actively encourage vocalisation to foster independence and are open to guidance on better supporting his communication and self-regulation.
Recently he has become more dysregulated and less engaged with previously enjoyed activities due to changes at school. We are looking for someone who can help restore routine, consistency, and calm.
Our Approach
We embrace stimming as self-regulation and expression unless it poses a risk (hitting, biting, running away). When redirection is needed, we use sensory circuits, silicone chewies, or weighted blankets. We praise effort over achievement and do not use reward systems, preferring to build intrinsic motivation.
Key Considerations

Safety near roads is non-negotiable; hand-holding is required, adapted to his energy
Proprioceptive regulation (e.g., lying on a pavement) is supported, not corrected
Hypermobility and reduced body awareness mean he may tire without noticing; extra time should be built into all activities and travel
Visual timetables and apps to manage non-routine days are part of our toolkit
A low-demand, emotionally safe environment is essential for both children to decompress

Main Responsibilities

School pick-ups and occasional drop-offs
Escorting to weekly OT and SALT appointments, medical/dental appointments, and play dates via public transport
Engaging him in preferred activities and supporting development throughout the day
Assisting with reading, writing, and numeracy
Preparing meals during shifts
Managing bath time and bedtime routines
Administering daily oral medication and asthma inhalers as required
Supporting toileting needs
Liaising confidently with medical, educational, and therapeutic partners (GP, dentist, OT, SALT, teachers) and reporting outcomes back to the family
Navigating sibling dynamics with calm and compassion
Keeping shared spaces tidy
Providing regular family updates

What We're Looking For
Someone experienced, resilient, and genuinely forward-thinking — able to see the world from our son's perspective, adapt moment to moment, and bring consistency and warmth to a child who thrives with the right support around him.