Student Jobs

Justin and Jenna have 2 kids, 2 smallish dogs, and 2 super fat guinea pigs. Our other kid is 15 and working as a camp counselor this summer, so you may not see him much. If you do, you'll find he's kind, quiet, and self-reliant. The same cannot be said of our little dogs, who will be very loud and needy when you come to the door, Every. Single. Time.  Thankfully, the thrill wears off within 2 minutes, and they mostly just lay around, not unlike our obese guinea pigs.

We had in mind 10:00 - 5:00 weekdays for the summer, but we are flexible and can work with your schedule, including variable shift lengths and some evening/weekend hours if preferred. Starting in September, we anticipate one 4-5 hour long evening shift per week, flexible on day of week.

Starting now through August 21st, we're looking for someone to spend 15-35 hours a week (flexible) being a buddy to our Autistic daughter who just turned 13. Then, once school starts, spending one evening per week "babysitting" through the school year. Additional hours may be available, if it works for your schedule.

Our daughter is very bright and high-functioning with a quirky sense of humor. She loves the outdoors and doing art projects, but can get over-stimulated and stressed by large group activities and fast transitions. She may need a little extra time to process requests and sensory breaks help her remain regulated and comfortable. We're happy to provide training on specific strategies that help when she's overwhelmed, but in general, if you are a calm, low energy, accepting person, that alone makes a big difference.

Are you the type who puts lids back on markers? Perfect! Our daughter loves drawing, painting, sculpting, and crafts of all kinds, but could use help/gentle reminders to put away supplies and clean-up when done. Same goes for meals/snacks, which she also enjoys making for herself. We’re members of the Hill Farms Swim Club, so you’re welcome to go swim with her there (2 blocks away) or walk/bike to Hilldale for ice cream. Board games, movie nights, and blanket forts are also favorite activities. No need to plan activities. She’s full of ideas, you’d mostly just join the adventure to keep things as safe and tidy as possible along the way.

We're not perfect and don't expect you to be. What we do expect is for you to be is kind, patient, and reliable. Our daughter is on the autism spectrum and can be a little socially awkward at times, so a sense of humor is a plus. If you will be in Madison beyond longer term, we'd love to give you regular work during the school year and partner with you again next summer.

Reach out by email to weidnersinmadison@gmail.com to tell us your preferred schedule and why you'd be a good fit. If possible, include work experience and have your references ready. Then just note how you'd prefer to be contacted (call or text) so we can set up a time to have you over to meet the family, if it seems like a good fit.