Parents who have children with disabilities usually have a difficult time locating babysitters to watch their children. Babysitters fear looking after these children and some teenager’s parents don’t want their children to take on this type of challenge. This is the beginning part in an article series about caring for children who have special needs.

You must learn something about the child and the disability he has, first.

Request a visit with the parents before you are first employed as a babysitter. Take some time educating yourself about the child’s disability, and some time playing with the child or establishing the necessary skills.

You have to find out how the parent defines the disability. Typically they don’t use the term handicap anymore, since many people consider this term to mean helpless. The terms used by some people are disabled, challenged, or special needs. Say whichever one the parent prefers. Also learn what term is used to define the child’s actual disability. For example, some parents use the term deaf, some use the term hearing impaired, but some use the term hearing challenged. I actually heard someone say “sound challenged” at one time! Say this word over and over so you will remember this.

When you become acquainted with the parent, ask them what the child is able to do and what kind of help is needed. Is there something you should be instructing him to do ? If a child is beginning to learn how to lace up his shoes, he might need assistance, however you should allow him to try as much as possible. What does this disability consist of, anyhow? What kind of warning signs should you look for?