What is a special needs nanny?
A special needs nanny is a nanny with relevant experience supporting a child with disabilities, developmental differences, medical routines, behavioural needs, or additional learning support. The role should be defined around the individual child, not a generic label. Families should verify training, references, safeguarding judgment, and whether clinical tasks require licensed professionals.
What the role may include
Routine support, communication strategies, sensory-aware activities, school coordination, and safe transitions.
Following parent, clinician, or school plans without inventing treatment.
Clear records for meals, medication prompts, mood, behaviour, and incidents where appropriate.
Hiring checks
Ask for examples with similar ages and needs.
Check safeguarding, first aid, references, and calm crisis judgment.
Agree what is outside the nanny’s remit and needs clinical or therapeutic support.
The best matches come from specificity: the child’s needs, the home environment, the schedule, and the candidate’s actual experience.
Follow-up questions
Does a special needs nanny need a medical qualification?
Not always, but any medical or regulated task should be handled by someone legally qualified for it.
Should the job description name the diagnosis?
Only as much as is necessary and privacy-safe. Focus on support needs, routines, and skills.