Where are you from and where do you currently live and work?
I am from Middletown, Ohio. While I’ve lived in different cities around the state, my husband and I moved back to Middletown before having children to be near family. I work for Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities Early Intervention in Lebanon, Ohio.
How long have you been working with children [on the spectrum]?
I began my career working with children with ASD in 1997. I did ABA therapy as a part time job while in college.
When did you become a P.L.A.Y. Project Home Consultant and what drew you to The P.L.A.Y. Project model?
I became certified in January 2013. I loved the idea of helping parents engage with their child and have FUN! I had a great opportunity to be trained with a large group of professionals in Ohio.
What do you like most about your work as a Home Consultant?
I can’t pick just one thing! It warms my heart to see big smiles coming from the parents and children as they PLAY; I love that I form such a close relationship with my families; I enjoy the fact that every visit is unique and challenging.
What is one of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned as a Home Consultant?
That we’re ALL continuously learning – children, parents, consultants and supervisors! We all can make mistakes, try things that don’t work so well, and that’s OK! Flexibilty and re-evaluation are essential components of The P.L.A.Y. Project. I always encourage my parents to be gentle and forgiving with themselves – we as professionals need to tell ourselves the same thing sometimes.
What do you do for fun/what makes you smile?
I love watching my children doing what they love – I have two daughters. My 10 year old (who happens to be on the spectrum) is always busy with theater and my 8 year old is a dancer. In my spare time you can find me reading or scrapbooking, with coffee and music close at hand!