Pediatric Special Needs Caregiver & Therapist Assistant

About the Role

Our client is a highly respected family-run institution in the vibrant city of Cape Town seeking a dedicated Pediatric Special Needs Caregiver & Therapist Assistant. This hybrid role offers the best of both worlds, combining essential in-person care with remote administrative and collaborative duties. You will be instrumental in providing specialized support and therapeutic assistance to children with diverse developmental and learning needs. Working closely with a team of therapists and educators, you will contribute to creating personalized care plans and ensuring a nurturing, stimulating environment that promotes each child's growth and well-being. This position demands a compassionate individual with a strong understanding of pediatric special needs and a commitment to fostering independence and positive development in young individuals. Your role will be crucial in supporting the children's daily lives and therapeutic journeys, ensuring they reach their full potential within a supportive and professional setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and supervision to children with special needs, ensuring their safety and comfort.
• Assist therapists (e.g., occupational, speech, physical therapists) during sessions, implementing prescribed activities and techniques.
• Support children in developing daily living skills, social interactions, and educational engagement.
• Prepare and administer snacks and meals according to dietary requirements.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of children's progress, behavior, and therapeutic interventions, both in person and for remote reporting.
• Communicate effectively with parents, guardians, and the therapy team regarding the child's progress and any concerns.
• Adapt activities and environments to meet the specific needs of each child.
• Participate in virtual team meetings and planning sessions to contribute to care plan development.
• Ensure a clean, organized, and safe living/therapeutic space.
• Engage children in play and learning activities designed to promote cognitive, physical, and emotional development.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of experience working with children with special needs (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, developmental delays).
• Familiarity with therapeutic approaches and intervention strategies used in pediatric care.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect with children, families, and professionals.
• Proficiency in using technology for communication and documentation (remote aspects).
• Demonstrated patience, empathy, and a strong sense of responsibility.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• First Aid and CPR certification are required.
• A relevant qualification in child development, therapy assistance, or a related field is a plus.
• Must be able to perform some duties remotely, including reporting and attending virtual meetings.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work in a hybrid model, offering flexibility.
• Professional growth and development opportunities within a supportive environment.
• Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children with special needs.
• Exposure to diverse therapeutic practices in a beautiful setting like Cape Town.

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