Job Description

We are looking for a friendly, creative, caring and dependable person, to provide instruction, companionship and support for our son,

a young adult

with medium-functioning autism, who is friendly and talkative. (In terms of his behaviour, interacting with him is more like supporting/interacting with a 7 to 10 year-old.)

In this role, you will join our son on

daily walks

(in the neighbourhood and near-by parks.)

Outings

, such as library, gym and (if you can swim) possibly swimming at the local pool, may be done as well.
You will plan and guide in simple

arts & crafts

activities,

simple cooking

(e.g. buying ingredients and making a smoothie or simple cookies), doing

movement exercises

and using the WII.

With your help, our son can try new activities and practice daily living skills.

This is a unique role that is a mix between an instructor/therapist, a "big sister" or a "big brother" and a companion.

Activities, such as arts & crafts and simple cooking, are used to further develop our son's communication, social and life-skills.
This role gives you a great opportunity gain valuable skills and experience, since we offer guidance and training on how to use developmental & play-based therapy approaches.

This is an on-going role and we are looking for someone who is able to build a relationship and make a commitment to support our son for at least the end of April 2026. If you are available for longer - that is even better.

Schedule: We are looking for someone who will support our son on weekdays, 2-3 times a week, 5 hours per day ( So up to a total of 10-15 hours per week + an additional hour of paid planning.)
The hours are usually from 10:30 AM - 3:30 PM, but there may be some flexibility. (Feel free to check specific hours with us.) Additional hours may become available in the future.

Pay: $25.00 to $26.50 per hour.

Location: We live in the Yonge/Clark area in Thornhill.

The ideal candidate will

:

have experience working or volunteering with kids (Possibly as a babysitter, camp-counsellor, student of ECE/Child & Youth Worker, therapist or instructor);

have the ability to plan simple arts & crafts activities; and

have a valid Ontario driver's license.

This opportunity may be of particular interest for

those considering studying Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Pathology, Recreation Therapy, special-education, Child and Youth Worker, Developmental Service Worker, Social Work or related fields - and looking to gain hands-on experience and training.
It may also be suitable for those seeking part-time hours, such as stay-at-home parents, semi-retired, and for those with experience in ECE, teaching, special-education or therapy.

To apply:

1. Send your resume

and

include your direct e-mail and/or phone number

. ( This is preferable to you using an Indeed-created e-mail.)

2. Make sure to add a brief message to let us know why this opportunity is of interest to you and why you believe you are a good candidate. (No need for a lengthy cover-letter.)

We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Job Types: Part-time, Freelance

Pay: $25.00-$26.50 per hour

Expected hours: 11 - 16 per week

Benefits:

Casual dress
Application question(s):

Are you located in Thornhill or within an easy commute range? (please provide details.)
Education:

Secondary School (required)
Licence/Certification:

Ontario Driving License (preferred)
Work Location: In person