Au pair/tutor for two neurodivergent siblings (Paarl)

Job Title:
Au Pair/Tutor for Two Neurodivergent Siblings – Paarl

Introduction:
We are seeking an experienced, compassionate, and playful au pair/tutor to join a family and support two wonderful neurodivergent brothers (ages 6 & 8). These energetic boys love being outdoors—riding their bicycles, digging in sand, splashing in water, and have a love for story time. They thrive when actively engaged.

Main Purpose of the Job:
To offer personalised daily guidance and support, ensuring each boy receives tailored learning opportunities that cater to their strengths and unique needs. A genuine passion for neurodiversity and a commitment to being a secure, long-term source of encouragement are of the utmost importance. The successful candidate will be trained by the NDC Facilitation Academy and will receive personalised support for the first 4–6 weeks.

General Requirements:

• A valid driver’s license, reliable car, and ability to use the family’s work vehicle – Essential
• Fluent in Afrikaans and English – Essential
• Ability to prepare healthy meals and snacks for two active boys, following nutritional guidelines – Essential

Key Responsibilities:

• Daily Safety & Transportation:
• Safely transport the boys in the work vehicle to extra-mural activities, therapy appointments, playdates, and outings (e.g., bike rides, park visits).
• Ensure vehicle is in good condition.
• Nurturing & Play:
• Actively engage in outdoor play—ride bikes with the brothers whenever possible, build sandcastles, supervise water play, and explore nature trails.
• Schedule and participate in structured and unstructured play that aligns with each boy’s sensory preferences (e.g., water sensory bins, sand tables, movement breaks).
• Read to the boys, selecting age-appropriate stories that nurture their love of books and language.
• Learning & Development:
• Design and facilitate self-directed, creative educational activities that honour each child’s interests—such as nature scavenger hunts, simple science experiments with water, or bicycle maintenance basics.
• Provide academic support (reading, writing, math fundamentals) using flexible, child-led approaches and visual aids.
• Scaffold executive functioning skills: help with daily routines, and transitioning between activities.
• Use low-arousal techniques to minimise anxiety: recognise early signs of overwhelm and implement calming strategies (quiet breaks, sensory toys).
• Emotional Support & Regulation:
• Build trusting, supportive relationships with each brother: practise active listening, validate emotions, and model positive self-regulation.
• Observe and respond to sensory needs: adjust lighting, noise levels, and activity pace to create a comfortable environment.
• Communicate consistently with parents and the multidisciplinary team regarding progress, challenges, and any emerging concerns.
• Household & Family Collaboration:
• Assist with meal planning, and preparing balanced lunches/snacks that fuel active play.
• Maintain a structured but flexible daily schedule using visual schedules/planners to help the boys anticipate transitions.
• Collaborate closely with parents, and therapists to align on goals and therapy recommendations.

Job-Related Experience & Knowledge:

• Previous experience supporting autistic and ADHD children (ages 5–10) – Essential
• Background in teaching, tutoring, or special education – Essential
• Familiarity with sensory-friendly strategies and low-arousal, child-led approaches – Essential
• Knowledge of executive functioning supports (visual schedules, timers, social stories) – Essential
• Relevant certifications or qualifications in education, special education, psychology, occupational therapy, or related fields – Desirable

Required Skills:

• Child-Centered Teaching: Able to plan and implement educational activities that adapt to each child’s current mood, energy level, and interests.
• Sensory & Behaviour Supports: Ability to recognise sensory triggers, de-escalate meltdowns, and teach coping strategies calmly and consistently.
• Communication & Collaboration: Strong verbal communication with children and parents; confident coordinating with therapists, teachers, and extended team members.
• Organisational & Time Management: Skilled at creating and following structured routines, managing appointments, and balancing multiple tasks without overwhelming the children.
• Play & Relationship Building: Enthusiastic about imaginative play, outdoor adventures, and strengthening the brothers’ social skills through guided interaction.

Benefits:

• Training and support from the Facilitation Academy coordinator.
• Access to use the family work vehicle.

Working Hours:

• Monday to Friday: 09:30 – 17:00 (with occasional flexibility as needed)
• Live-in during every second weekend when the children visit their father (including room and board)
• During school holidays, travel with the family to local holiday home

Salary & Reimbursement:

• R 18 000 – R 20 000 per month (negotiable based on qualifications and experience)
• Reimbursement of travel costs at AA rates

Ideal Starting Date:

• As soon as possible

How to Apply:
Please email your CV and a brief cover letter explaining your experience with neurodivergent children to academy@neurodiversitycentre.co.za. We will contact shortlisted candidates for interviews—thank you for your interest and time.

Only candidates meeting the essential criteria will be considered. We appreciate your understanding.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: R18 000,00 - R20 000,00 per month

Application Question(s):

• Do you have previous experience au pairing younger neurodivergent children?

Experience:

• neurodivergent childcare: 1 year (Required)

Language:

• Afrikaans and English fluently (Required)

License/Certification:

• drivers license (Required)

Location:

• Paarl, Western Cape (Drakenstein, Cape Winelands) (Preferred)

Work Location: In person