Companion for 7-year-old neurodivergent girlPretoria, South Africa | Posted on 28/10/2024
Salary: R4800 – R7200 per month (Hourly rate R200 – R300 per hour)Province: GautengCountry: South AfricaPostal Code: 0002About UsOur specialised sourcing, training, and support service for families of neurodivergent children and adults.
Job DescriptionWe are looking for a confident, playful, and energetic individual to engage with a 7-year-old autistic girl in weekly, interest-led activities. The ideal candidate will incorporate sensory and regulation activities recommended by her occupational therapist, creating a fun and supportive environment.
The ideal candidate should be kind, patient, compassionate, and have a good sense of humor. This little girl has a strong interest in animals and music, enjoys playing musical instruments, and loves outdoor play, especially obstacle courses and engaging games.
Main Purpose of the job: To be a "helping hand" for her unique and specific support needs, giving her the necessary guidance and support to thrive. A special interest and passion in neurodiversity and being a secure, long-term source of support are of the utmost importance.
The candidate will receive training and personalised support by the NDC Facilitation Academy from a registered counsellor for up to 4-6 weeks.
Job Objectives:
• Becoming a core member of the multi-disciplinary team to support her individual needs at home.
• Providing companionship and emotional support for her.
• Support and scaffolding for her regulation needs (lessening any uncertainty and anxiety).
• Supporting and understanding her individual sensory profile and executive functioning (i.e., assisting with creating a routine with the use of visual aids).
• Facilitating and planning creative educational activities using a child-led approach.
RequirementsGeneral Requirements:
• Fluent in English or Afrikaans – Essential.
Job-Related Work Experience:
• Previous experience in a role supporting neurodivergent children - Essential.
• Previous experience working with younger children under the age of 10 years old - Essential.
• Previous experience in teaching/tutoring - Preferred.
Job-Related Knowledge:
• Familiarity and knowledge of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) - Essential.
• Familiarity with low arousal, child-led, neuro-affirming approach - Essential.
• Familiarity and knowledge of sensory processing difficulties - Essential.
• Familiarity and knowledge of DIR Floortime – Desirable.
Job-Related Skills:
• Capable of planning and implementing fun, engaging, and creative activities with her, using a flexible approach tailored to her interests and sensory needs – Essential.
• Ability to minimise stress and anxiety for her by utilising a low arousal approach - Essential.
• Strong verbal communication skills with children and parents – Essential.
• Organisational skills, i.e., ability to implement structure, strong time management imperative - Essential.
• Social, play and life skills – Essential.
• Relationship building skills - Essential.
• Support and training from a multi-disciplinary team knowledgeable in the field of Neurodiversity.
Working hours:
• Monday, Thursday and Friday: 14:00-16:00
Salary Range:
• R4800 – R7200 per month (Hourly rate R200 – R300 per hour)
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