Youth Respite Provider

We are seeking a compassionate and attentive respite provider to support a nonverbal child with autism. Responsibilities include ensuring safety through active supervision and engaging him in meaningful, developmentally appropriate activities such as sensory play, art projects, and physical movement. The provider will incorporate his interests - such as driving toy vehicles (especially tractors and machines), exploring cause-and-effect toys like tinkering boards and Rube Goldberg-style setups, and enjoying music through instruments like a piano keyboard - into daily routines. Occasional outings, such as visits to children’s museums or outdoor excursions, are encouraged. The child communicates using an AAC device and by physically guiding others to items of interest, so the provider should be patient, responsive, and attentive to nonverbal cues while fostering engagement and exploration.

 

• Location: Altoona - Care location flexible

• Schedule: 

• Monday/Wednesdays: 3 PM-7 PM (Every week)

• Fridays: 3 PM-7 PM (Every other week)

• Potential to build hours with overnights every other week Friday or Saturday

• Hourly Pay: $14.13 per hour OR $207.45/Overnight

 

This kiddo is an active, and joyful child who thrives on hands-on learning and sensory-rich experiences. He is non-verbal, communicates through an AAC device and by guiding others to what he wants. he responds best to patient redirection, creativity, and distraction. He loves:

• Machines of all kinds (tractors, riding devices, wheels)

• Tinkering and cause-and-effect activities (Busy boards, buttons, ect.)

• Music, especially playing on a piano/keyboard

• Sensory play like swinging, trampoline time, swimming, and outdoor activities

• Occasional outings such as the children’s museum or outdoor adventures

• Prepare and assist with feeding

• Engage the child in sensory, art, physical, and creative activities

• Support communication using his AAC device and non-verbal cues

• Accompany the child on occasional outings and assist with activities/safety supervision as needed

• Provide care in the provider's home

• A provider who prioritizes safety, companionship, and fun

• Someone compassionate, patient, and understanding

• Creative and hands-on, with interest in sensory play and cause-and-effect learning

• Trustworthy, reliable, and consistent

• Experience with non-verbal children or developmental differences is a plus, but not required

• Must pass a caregiver/criminal background check.

• Authorized to work in the U.S.

• Reliable transportation.

 

If you enjoy being active, building creative activities, and forming meaningful connections, this could be a wonderful fit.