Overview

We are seeking a dedicated Educational Assistant to support children with special needs through in-home therapy sessions. We're looking for a caring, energetic Educational Assistant to work one-on-one with our 6-year-old son at our home in St. Catharines. He is autistic with ADHD and follows a structured home therapy plan built around his school and ABA schedules. You'll run engaging activity sessions with him using visual schedules, photo cues, and a token-board reward system.

Responsibilities

- Follow a photo-based visual schedule to guide him through 15–20 minute activity blocks (writing, reading, puzzles, fine motor play, focus games)

- Lead social communication activities: turn-taking games, greeting practice, name-response games, parallel play

- Support attention and focus exercises using timers and structured routines

- Supervise outdoor time: park visits, cycling, swimming (seasonal)

- Use positive reinforcement and token board consistently; follow his behaviour support strategies (redirecting, offering breaks, staying calm during kicking, throwing, or screaming)

- Support daily living skills: tooth brushing, shoes, handwashing

- Log easy 1–5 progress scores and brief session notes after each visit To apply Please include a brief note about your experience with children with autism. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a paid trial session with him. ---

- Implement instructional activities tailored to each child's needs, including academic subjects such as Math and early childhood education

- Support communication development,



including the use of American Sign Language when applicable

- Collaborate with licensed therapists and educators to reinforce therapeutic goals and strategies

- Create a positive, engaging learning environment that encourages growth and independence

- Monitor and document student progress, providing feedback to supervising professionals and families

- Adapt teaching methods based on each child's abilities, especially those with disabilities or special needs

- Maintain a safe and organized home learning space conducive to effective therapy sessions

Skills

- Prior classroom experience or teaching background is highly desirable

- Experience working with children with autism or special needs (required)

- Comfortable supporting challenging behaviours calmly and following a behaviour plan

- Knowledge of ABA principles an asset

- Patient, playful, reliable, and comfortable following a structured plan

- Current vulnerable sector police check (or willing to obtain)

- References from families or agencies required

- Strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with families, children, and therapy teams

- Ability to adapt instructional strategies to diverse learning styles and developmental levels

- Passion for supporting children's educational growth and developmental milestones

- Patience, flexibility, and a caring attitude essential for working in a home-based therapy environment

Pay: $22.00-$28.00 per hour

Benefits

- On-site parking

Application question(s)

- How many years of experience do you have working with special needs children?

Work Location: In person

📌 Educational assistant - In home therapy (St. Catharines)
🏢 Matrix Health
📍 St. Catharines