Alex

My Requirements

The Role:

?We are looking for a reliable, calm, and open-minded childcare practitioner or babysitter to provide regular 1:1 respite care for our 4-year-old son, Marcus.

?Our primary goal is simply to find a safe, trusted person who can hang out in his space, match his energy, and give the family a much-needed break. We are not looking for an expensive specialist, an educator, or an entertainer. We are looking for someone who excels at listening, learning, and keeping things completely stress-free.

?Hours:
to start with ?2–3 half days per week. with potential for increasing if the right fit.
?We are flexible on the exact days and times for the right person.

?About Our Son & The Low-Demand Approach:
?Marcus is a bright and sensitive little boy who is currently experiencing a phase of severe anxiety and sensory burnout. When his anxiety spikes, traditional babysitting or parenting styles (like directing him, asking lots of questions, or offering incentives) do not work and cause him to shut down.

?Because of this, we utilise a strict low-demand approach. For the right caregiver, this means:
?Chilling in His Space (Parallel Play): Most of your time will be spent just being a quiet, reassuring presence in the room while he plays or watches his favourite media. You do not need to entertain or animate him; you just need to be comfortable with quiet, parallel activity.

?No Pressure or Expectations: There is a strict rule of zero demands. You will never be expected to force him to tidy up, sit at a table, eat, or complete routines.

?A Gentle, Safe Introduction: Because new people can make him anxious, the first couple of sessions will involve you just coming over to chat with us (the parents) and hanging out naturally, entirely ignoring Marcus until he feels safe enough to approach you on his own terms.

?What We Are Looking For:
?A Calm and Un-bothered Demeanour: Someone who is completely comfortable sitting quietly and taking a child's lead entirely.
?Willingness to Learn: You do not need to walk in the door as an expert. We will happily teach you our routine and how we use low-demand communication to keep him safe.
?Low Ego: Someone who doesn't feel the need to "force a connection" or show off childcare techniques, but instead values safety and physical comfort over rigid structure.

?This is a fantastic opportunity for a patient childcare student, a nanny, or a local babysitter looking to learn about neuroaffirming care in a completely supportive, low-pressure home environment.

?Please include a bit about your natural approach to childcare and why a low-demand role appeals to you when you apply. Thank you!