I am a mother of two grown sons with over 30 years of professional experience working with children, including those with special needs. I am a retired teacher, have personal experience growing up with a sibling on the autism spectrum, and live with a rare autoimmune condition (MCTD). While MCTD rarely affects my abilities, I avoid heavy lifting and do not accept jobs during flare-ups. My caregiving style is patient, respectful, and supportive. I believe in encouraging independence at each child's level, offering guidance while allowing them to grow and learn at their own pace. I take time to observe, understand, and adapt my approach to meet each person's needs in the moment.