[Luvbeingmommy]

Hi there! I have been away from the forum for awhile and need some expert advice from some of you.
Our pastor has asked my dd (24) who works in the church nursery as needed to be an autistic child's care giver. I don't have much info. The child was healthy until immunizations were given (supposably too much) and now is autistic. I don't know the age of the child -- boy? girl? I know that the age will be significant and determine alot of the type of special care he/she needs. I didn't think to ask the pastor. This is for a family who has contacted the church looking for a place to attend and wanted to make sure that the child would be cared for. Of course my dd wants to help, but is understandably a little nervous. If the family does attend, the mom and dd can get together and discuss her expectations. Dd just wants a head start! Any and all suggestions are welcome.
Thanks in advance!

[Luvbeingmommy]

I just spoke to the pastor, the child is a 3 year old boy!

[aspenhall]

I did nursery care for a child who has Angelman's syndrome...

All she'll need to do is be able to keep the child from hurting himself or others or property. She should go over to their house during the day to see the family "in action". Get to know the boy and how he interacts.

[DannieAS]

ahhhh where to start....

first of all, do you have any information regarding behaviors, language, perseverative quirks that this boy is exhibiting? if not, maybe a kind inquiry would suffice. As a 3 year old, parents may still be in the grieving process from this diagnosis and may still feel defensive.

second of all, while a nursery may be a free for all, this child needs structure and visuals. Take pictures of snacks available, toys available, songs you sing or what will be needed. Put them on a board (I use velcro) in the same place where he can see it. Have him choose what he wants to play with by taking the picture down and giving it to you....(at the beginning if he does respond to pictures...you may have to do hand over hand). Make a carrier phrase that you use often in order to keep things simple (I want ____)....say this exact phrase ( or "I see____") over and over again....that way if he begins to use words and phrases, he is familiar with the routine and can have his wants/needs met as well.

sorry I'm rambling...but I do this regularly at my job. I hope some of this helps. Remember that all autistic children are different and have different abilities (high functioning to low functioning) and different quirks. You will have to learn what are his and continually adjust.

[Luvbeingmommy]

Thank you for the replies, we should know more about him after Sunday morning! Thanks again!