I started working with children professionally when I became a substitute teacher, which then lead me to a more permanent position at a special needs preschool. The needs of the children varied greatly, and I enjoyed learning with them and about their individual needs. After leaving the preschool when school was out for Summer I became a nanny. Ages ranged from 3-5 in our classroom and I had the opportunity to work with blind children, children on varying degrees of the autism spectrum (both verbal and non) various developmental delays, and some children who were still being diagnosed. I learned so much about the different ways we can communicate or struggle with communication, but most importantly, I learned how we all deserve love, care, respect, and encouragement no matter our age or special need. The children never ceased to amaze me with their determination to learn and be understood. Working in that preschool was one of the most valuable and positive experiences in my life.