21yrs

female

Speaks English, Sign Language (ASL)

I was lucky to be able to attend schools where special needs programs were offered and integrated into the traditional classroom settings. This allowed me to be working with my peers of varying abilities since I was in elementary school, which started a much longer journey working with special needs children and adults in my area. I spent time in middle school and high school teaching art classes to children with a variety of special needs and developmental delays, as well as gross and fine motor problems. This showed me how important creating a welcoming space is, and learning to adapt to children's needs, especially in group settings among their peers. I also started nannying at this time for children of multiple families, who had varying disabilities. I learned how important certain aspects of home life, like orginzation and routines, are needed for these children to succeed.