When asked to write this particular article, I was definitely challenged in a thought provoking way. A child (and family) with special needs requires a special nanny. I believe it takes a village to raise any child, but it takes much more discipline, planning and organization to build the team of support for a family with a child with special needs, and that's where the special nanny comes in.

Imagine how hard it must be orchestrate the day-to-day activities. For example, making appointments with doctors, therapists, counselors and school staff. To have all those professionals in place is one thing but to keep it all on track is another. The right nanny can help make your life more manageable. A nanny who has an understanding of your child's special care needs can be a "special friend" to your child and a Godsend to the rest of the family.

Consider what your life could be like if you could let go of some of the things you have to do now, especially if you have more than one child. Siblings need quality time, too. It's so important for them to have their own space, yet they can feel left out when the special needs child gets all the attention. Again, that's where the nanny comes in. The right nanny can help alleviate the stress that comes from "trying to do it all" and can help provide respite for everyone, by inserting the right amount of breathing room everyone needs.

When looking for this special nanny, think what your requirements are. Do you need a full time nanny? Do you need a nanny that comes in the mornings to help get ready for school, or at the end of the day to help with the changeover from school to home, or both?

Here is what I think you should look for in the "right nanny" for a special needs child. Remember, not any nanny will do!

The Essentials of a Special Nanny

Is KIND and GENTLE

• Is calm and tolerant, not easily overwhelmed;
• Understands child development and is interested in and understanding of your child's particular special needs;
• Possesses good organization and management skills;
• Takes direction well but acts on their own initiative;
• Can react well in an emergency;
• Is a Team Player, able to follow through on the schedule and activities you have in place;
• Engages your children in a manner they respond well to.

The right nanny can be priceless to your support team.