Assistants / LSAs

As a mother to a child with special needs, I’ve come to realize how truly life-changing a good assistant can be. These wonderful individuals play such an important role in our children’s lives—helping them learn, grow, and feel included. But what makes someone a great assistant, and what qualifications should they have, especially here in the UAE?

The Heart of the Role: Kindness, Patience, and Empathy

First and foremost, the right assistant must have the right heart. They should be:

• Kind – Someone who genuinely cares about the child’s wellbeing.
• Patient – Progress can be slow and every child learns differently. Patience is key.
• Empathetic – Understanding the child’s emotions and perspective makes a huge difference.
• Supportive – Not just with studies, but emotionally and socially as well.
• Transparent – Shares the goods and bads that relates to child's day with the parents so that there is open communication and trust which naturally provides a nurturing environment for the child.
• Positive – Dealing with special needs children is definitely stressful, the best assistants are always positive even when things go side ways or the child throws tantrums or has a meltdown.

These personal traits are the foundation. But alongside that, it's also important that assistants are trained and qualified to handle the unique needs of children with disabilities or learning difficulties.

Why Qualifications Matter

While a caring heart is important, proper training ensures that assistants know how to handle challenges, use learning strategies, and support different types of special needs—whether it’s autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, or learning disabilities. Training helps assistants:

• Use appropriate communication methods (like visual aids or PECS).
• Understand behavioural needs and how to respond calmly and effectively.
• Adapt classroom activities to make them more inclusive.
• Work hand-in-hand with teachers, therapists, and parents.

Recognized Certifications in the UAE

In the UAE, there are several certifications and courses that are either required or highly recommended for those looking to work as special needs assistants. Here are some of the most recognized ones:

1. RBT® – Registered Behavior Technician

This international certification is offered in collaboration with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Many centers in the UAE offer RBT training, including:

• UAE ABA
• AIM Learning – Dubai

2. Diploma in Special Education Needs (SEN)

This is a very popular and well-rounded qualification for assistants. It covers everything from autism to learning difficulties. Some UAE-based institutes offering this include:

• Arabian Child – Offers a range of online and in-person programs.
• Knowledge Point Institute – Dubai
• Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi – Offers education-related diploma programs.

3. KHDA-Approved SEN Assistant Training

In Dubai, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) approves certain training programs for SEN assistants. These programs are recognized by schools across the emirate and are often required to work in private educational institutions.

4. First Aid and Child Safeguarding Certifications

Though not specific to special needs, having First Aid and Safeguarding training is a must. Most schools in the UAE will require this for all staff, including assistants. These can be obtained from:

• Highfield International
• Safety First Training Center

Where to Find Qualified Assistants

If you’re a parent like me, you may be looking for a trustworthy and qualified assistant to support your child. You can reach out to:

• Your child’s school SEN department
• Specialized therapy centers in your city
• Facebook groups like Special Needs Families UAE
• Websites like Khaleej Times Classifieds or Dubizzle
• Checkout our Assistants Database below

Assistants Database

Please find below recently registered Assistants who have shown interest in listing their profiles with us.

Name	Nationality	Languages	Location
Anita Campbell	India	English,Urdu,Hindi	Dibba Al Fujairah
Ryan Goosebumps	United Kingdom	English	Sharjah
Rawal Malik	India	Urdu,Hindi	Abu Dhabi

Final Thoughts

Having the right assistant can completely change a child’s school experience—for the better. It’s not just about helping with schoolwork. It’s about making our children feel understood, safe, and supported every step of the way.

If you’re someone who wants to become an assistant, thank you from the bottom of my heart. And if you’re a parent looking for the right person to support your child, I hope this post helps you understand what to look for and where to start.