Kirsten on Breakfast Television, Calgary discussing Speech and Language Delays
I remember wanting to be a teacher ever since my sister became old enough to play “school” with me. I would have her sit at a little desk, complete crafts, and solve math problems she likely couldn’t understand at the time. Regardless, I loved to give her an A+ and sticker for each worksheet she completed. I maybe didn’t realize it at the time, but I believe that the feelings I felt when I saw others smile and be proud of their accomplishments is what truly made me love the idea of teaching.
Throughout my high school and university career I made a point to work with children as much as possible and in a variety of environments and roles. It was when I became an intern with an Autism Intervention program in my second year of University that I found my true passion -working with children with special needs.
My first client was a 2 year old boy with the most adorable big brown eyes who I will refer to as Lucas. I will never forget our session that first week where he spent almost 2 hours crying and frustrated. At the time, I felt my thoughts going a mile a minute trying to figure out how to console this little guy without teaching him that if he cries he gets what he wants. When you have a moment like this, focus needs to be on empathizing for this little person, not just sympathizing. There is a profound difference, and it changes everything. I shared with him my understanding of his frustration, I verbally told him I could hear him and was listening. It may sound simple, but showing another individual your empathy and understanding truly shows your intentions and love for them.
About a year ago, Lucas’ father brought up this story of my rather tough session with Lucas. I remember letting out a slight laugh but also the millions of memories of my time with Lucas flying through my head in that one moment. Lucas is now 8 years old. He loves star wars, hockey, his family, and is the top reader in his class. Some find it hard to believe it’s the same little boy that would spend hours upon hours lining up objects to make a train, avoiding eye contact and touch, and struggling with relationships.
I share this story of Lucas because it was him and his amazingly dedicated and supportive family that made my goals and purpose in life become so clear. There are so many families ready to learn how to support their child with special needs yet so many are not empowered to do so. My personal mission is to provide services and support to as many families as possible and to setup our society to embrace these families and be part of their journey.
I currently manage an early intervention Preschool and Kindergarten program for children with special needs in Calgary, Alberta. When this job first became available I was weary of applying, telling myself I was too young to step into a senior management role. It became quite apparent after talking things through and making pro/cons list with my partner how ridiculous it would be to not pursue a job that can help me achieve my goals to expand my reach to families.
I have been in the role with Pacekids Programs for over a year now and love every second of it. I have been blessed to witness first steps, words, hugs, and more. I can see just how big of an impact our organization makes on the families we serve each and every day and for this, I am truly grateful. I hope to continue to educate our society on these very special children so they can continue to see the ability in them, not the disability.
Please feel free to browse our website to learn more about our programs and how we work to make a difference: https://pacekids.ca/.
Kirsten & “Lucas” 2015
Add Comment