Forums
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1 week, 1 day ago by NicoleE |
Hi, I'm thinking about setting up a special needs babysitting service for families in and around South London. I'm looking for some feedback - is it a good idea, would you use it, what would you look for in the service, does anyone have any experience of setting up something like this? I would be extremely grateful of any responses, good or bad! Many thanks, Nicole |
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1 week ago by bayley |
I think it would be an excellent idea as I never was able to find anyone who could look after my son when he was younger. Advice? Well firstly get some experience of a wide range of disabilities so parents are reassured you've seen some of the conditions and know some of the challenges which can present themselves. Secondly, emphasise on all your literature and when talking to parents,that you realise every child is different and you want to know what makes their child tick, laugh, be comforted, stressed, anxious etc before you work with that child - so that parents know whatever the situation, you'll have an idea of what caused it and what to do. It could be you could do this via an introductory questionaire done at registration, updatedly annually to take into account changes and trends. Previous experiences? Well I tried to get a childminder for my son;many childminders ticked the box saying they welcomed special needs, but when I met them, they just talked about the ramp access and knowledge of dietary conditions as diabetes - when i talked about challenging behaviour and sensory needs for my autistic son they weren't too sure and neither side felt comfortable with him staying! I sincerely wish you luck with it - there is a definite needs for this service, however it is challenging, difficult work and takes a special kind of person to work with our special kids :) But you will be offering a unique service for parents who will be extremely grateful so go for it!! |
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6 days, 20 hours ago by Heather |
Hi. I'm based in NW Kent and the social services respite support centre recently created a baby sitting directory. They vetted and ensured all persons were CRB checked and had sufficient skills to match families. The list was then distributed to all families on their records. Not sure if the take up has been too good yet, but it has only been a few months. You could phone 01322 668501 and ask the staff for further details. Good luck, as we all know, finding quality helpers is like looking for a needle in a haystack! |
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6 days, 19 hours ago by NicoleE |
Thank you so much bayley and Heather, I appreciate you taking the time to respond. You have both given really helpful advice and also a lot to think about! I will, hopefully in the near future, be setting up my new service!! Thanks again, Nicole |
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5 days ago by Marie |
I dont think babysitting service is the way to go, I think I would be more inclined to take up the offer of a drop in service, I just dont feel comfortable with someone in the house with my child, I would however feel better taking them to a centre where there are a few people/carers and other kids. If babysitting was on offer I would need the person to get to know my child for a while as at home he is different to when he is out, At home he thinks he is the boss, in a centre he takes instruction and follows the rules better. |
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