Special Needs Care in Ancaster

| I have taught students with special needs for more than 20 years.

| I am 22 years old, recently graduated social service worker graduate.

| Hello! My name is Emily, and I am a mature university student studying social work and psychology. I am passionate about being a companion for those who have special needs. I am currently looking for short-term work; I will be leaving for the summer in either May or June. If you need a companion for the next few months, or even if your current companion is sick or is going on vacation, I would be happy to fill in the gaps. I have experience working with people with varying needs, primarily as a previous caretaker and companion for a client with cerebral palsy. I was a youth worker for several years and led groups that included neurodivergent teenagers, primarily ASD teens. I also enjoyed being a helper and tutor in the classroom for students with special needs. I am calm and patient with a gentle personality, yet also tuned in to my client's needs. My area of studies, previous experiences, and life experiences have allowed me to have an good understanding of life with neurodivergence and special needs.

| Currently in a double degree program of psychology and child and youth studies. This program has provided me with relevant course work and educational materials to aid in my learning regarding individuals with special needs. I have worked directly with special needs children at Camp Kidaca for the City of Hamilton which included medical care, feedings, changing, toiletting assistance, cognitive and speech assistance and much more! Here I worked with children suffering from ADD, ODD, ADHD, cerebral palsy, Autism, Spectrum disorders and others. I also worked at the YMCA in the child care department where I worked with children with autism, on the spectrum, ADD, ADHD, ODD, and cognitive delays.

| I am a social service worker and currently working as an educational assistant with the catholic school board in Hamilton. I have worked with students of all ages and gender with a focused approach on ASD, FASD, nonverbal and challenging behaviours. I have also worked with Community Living Hamilton providing respite care for children as well as adults. I am patient, understanding and empathetic individual that loves working with others.