Overview
A high-net-worth family in Houston, TX is seeking a dedicated and experienced full-time live-in governess to provide exceptional care and education for their two daughters, aged 3.5 and 5-years-old. The 5-year-old daughter is autistic and a selective eater with social challenges that need attentive and skilled guidance. They seek a candidate passionate about child development, with excellent teaching skills and the ability to create a nurturing and structured environment for the children.
The main focus of this role is as a governess for the special needs child as the family also have a full-time nanny. The family's special needs child requires special services for care and development. These range from identifying the best and top specialists in providing total and proper care for child’s condition – inclusive of nutrition, classes, therapy, educators (in and outside of the home), etc. The role requires continual monitoring of stages of development and best practices and treatment recommended by top specialists. Parents are to be kept informed of sources in conducting the research used to identify recommendations, provide expert reports for parents on recommendations, etc.
The family will consider relocating a candidate if it is the right fit. While the primary schedule will be Monday through Friday there will be instances where early mornings, late nights or weekends will be required. This flexibility is essential to accommodate specific teaching goals or activities that my occur outside standard hours. However, the focus during this time will be still be on teaching, not nanny related duties.
Responsibilities
- Identifying and collaborating with top specialists to ensure the best possible care for the child's unique needs. This includes researching and sourcing experts in various fields such as nutrition, therapy, education (both in-home and external), and any other relevant areas.
- Ongoing monitoring of the child's developmental stages and staying abreast of the latest best practices and treatments as recommended by leading specialists. This includes ensuring that all care and educational plans are up-to-date and aligned with the latest advancements and expert recommendations.
- Conduct thorough research to identify the most reputable sources and specialists. Keep parents informed by providing detailed reports that include the methodologies and sources used in the research. Offer clear, expert-backed recommendations and insights to guide the parents in making informed decisions about their child's care and development.
- Maintain open and regular communication with the parents, providing updates on the child's progress, any changes in recommended practices, and new opportunities for enhancing the child's development. Ensure that all information is presented clearly and comprehensively, supporting the parents in their ongoing journey to provide the best care for their child.
- Develop and implement age-appropriate educational activities and lesson plans aligned with Montessori principles to meet developmental milestones.
- Teach and reinforce proper manners, table manners, and social skills.
- Encourage and support the 5-year-old in overcoming selective eating habits and social challenges.
- Foster a love of learning through creative and engaging teaching methods tailored to the needs of an autistic child.
- Ensure the children’s safety, well-being, and emotional development.
- Organize and maintain a structured daily routine that balances educational, recreational, and rest periods.
- Communicate effectively with parents regarding the children’s progress, activities, and any concerns.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and stimulating learning environment.
- Utilize technology to enhance learning and stay organized.
- Plan and coordinate extracurricular activities, play-dates, and outings that promote social interaction and physical activity.
Qualifications
- Warm, nurturing, and caring personality.
- High level of professionalism and discretion.
- Proactive, energetic, and creative approach to childcare and education.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Flexible and adaptable to changing family needs and schedules.
Requirements
- Minimum of 15+ years of experience as a governess, nanny, teacher, or in a similar role with young children.
- Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Special Education, or a related field is required.
- Strong understanding of child development and age-appropriate educational practices, with experience in Montessori education preferred.
- Excellent teaching skills with the ability to create engaging and educational activities.
- Outstanding organizational and communication skills.
- Patience, empathy, and the ability to handle selective eating and social issues with sensitivity.
- Experience working with autistic children and understanding their unique needs.
- Tech-savvy with the ability to incorporate educational technology into daily routines.
- CPR and First Aid certification is preferred.
- Must be able to travel with family and children when needed.
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
Salary and Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
- Paid vacation and holidays.
- Health insurance and other benefits [if applicable].
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
