I want to start by saying that I am not a parent of a child with an Emotional/Behavioral Disorder. I am also not a parent of a child who is on the Autism Spectrum. However; I am a parent, and I am a teacher who loves, with all of my heart, children who suffer from Emotional/Behavioral Disorders and those who fall on any portion of the Autism Spectrum.

I will never admit to knowing how the parents of these children feel, and I will never say “I know what you mean.” I do not know what it is like to live day in and day out with these precious children, but I do know that each and every one of them who has been a part of my adventure has grabbed my heart and made me aware of my life’s purpose. I was born to work with these kids.

I consider behavior to be a language. It is simply a way to communicate. These children are using their behavior to communicate with me. Picture yourself in a foreign country, alone, scared and desperate. You look around and no matter how loud you yell, the locals still don’t understand you. It seems as though they are not listen, but in actuality, they do not understand you.  This is the point where we, as human beings, use behavior to communicate. All of the children I work with are attempting to communicate with me. When they have melt downs, they are communicating. When they withdraw, they are communicating. When they tell me they hate me, they are communicating. It is my job to listen and dissect what they are telling me. Once I do this, I can teach them the appropriate way to communicate, known more commonly to those without behavior disorders, to simply behave.

I have worked in Special Education in Forsyth County for 7 years, and with each year I have narrowed my field down further and further so specifically target these beautiful minds.

I will recount funny stories, but first and foremost, I will always protect the confidentiality of my children.

Please feel free to comment and offer any suggestions that have worked for you. Always remember to be kind, considerate and compassionate when leaving comments.