I've been working with special needs kids for six years now. I started in college while I was studying psychology. ABA (applied behavioral analysis- intensive therapy for children with autism) was big in our area, and a lot of the agencies hired college kids as tutors. I mainly worked with two kids, one preschooler and one elementary school age.
After graduation I found a job teaching at an inclusive preschool for Easter Seals UCP. While I was there I taught the two and three year old class, but also worked with the other age groups some as well. Without knowing it, I had picked one of the biggest learning experiences in my life! Our kids had a wide range of needs. Some were typical, some were on the autism spectrum, some had gross motor delays such as cerebral palsy, and many had various genetic issues resulting in delays. We had a lot of kids with medical issues, such as epilepsy or kids who were tube fed. I was able to work closely alongside our therapists, including OT, PT, and speech. We also had visual impaired and hard of hearing teachers.
My most recent adventure has been as an early intervention coordinator for my state. I assist families of children birth to three in getting therapy services. I also help them as they make the transition from early intervention to our county school system. So far I'm learning a lot, particularly about preemies and their specific needs.
I hope I will be able to combine a lot of what I have learned and continue to learn in this blog! I've had some many great teachers along the way and I hope to be a good representative for them.
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