First, I have an M.Ed. from the University of Virginia, with a focus on children with disabilities. References, police, and a clear CPS background report are available. I am a fun-loving, easy-going, and active caretaker specifically trained to work with special needs, including ASD, Tourette, ADHD, and similar disabilities. ABA trained, and the father of a child with comparable disabilities who is now a successful adult. Most kids love me and are willing to dive in and have fun. My daughter is a lawyer and teaches ethics, and I am especially adept at taking kids out to the mall, local airport, commuter train to the D.C. museums, or Richmond. I have a commercial CDL with a student endorsement, and we go anywhere we can practice calming and behavior, and have fun in various environments. Swimming pools and lakes are incredibly attractive to kids with ASD and extremely dangerous since most can't swim. I specialize in providing survival swimming at the local YMCA. ( I have a membership, and the crew at Massad Stafford YMCA knows me. I have been active as a Big Brother mentor for almost 14 years, giving back to my community. I love electronics, gadgets, elephants, the Mars Rover, the landscape of Venus, and everything about the James Webb Telescope. Many kids love this stuff, too. Some kids can make their bed with help, and afterward, we can grill a cheese sandwich, read a picture book, or watch a video... but not all day! I have cared for a 7-year-old with comorbidities for almost four years and helped potty-train him. BTW, I currently teach middle school reading, am rarely grouchy, and, as a Gemini, remain in touch with my inner child forever. I have extensive experience helping kids with autism and related needs; I might be able to give you a break from the routine without breaking your budget.
“Gary is a wonderful caretaker of our children, including one who has ASD and special needs! We have worked with him for over three years and trust Gary with both our boys, aged 7 and 5. Gary is professional, knowledgeable, very understanding, and kind. We enjoy working with Gary, and he is excellent taking our special needs child to his swimming pool, or out for adventures in FXBG, D.C., Richmond. He has an excellent rating on CheckR, BTW.”
