Our journey in understanding the world of special children is very personal. Let me start by telling our story. My husband and I devoted ourselves and prayed to the patron saints of Obando, Bulacan last 2018. The following year, we're blessed to have a son. We named him Zed, which means “The Lord is righteous” in Hebrew. During Zed's early stages of development, we seemed something unusual about his behavior.  At that time, we were unaware of the fact that that was already an indication that he was special. The pandemic prevented us from having him examined by a developmental pediatrician. Not until December of 2021,did we find a clinic to have him examined properly. As a result, Zed was formally diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

How did we take it as parents? Acceptance is the first step we take. Even before when he was not diagnosed yet, we already had a hunch that our son is a peculiar one. Therefore, accepting his official diagnosis was not difficult for us. We gained a greater sense of meaning and dedication that turned us from being  typical parents into "auesome ones"! Certainly, the journey is not easy, financial struggles, frustrations, anger, sadness and all sorts of emotions. The most difficult part was feeling lost as parents. Lost, and asking ourselves "WHY don't these therapies seem to work?" Most of the therapies we tried did not work; occupational therapy, speech therapy, and home-based occupational therapy. We sought answers and strengths from support groups and connected with other parents who were going through similar situation which helped us feel less isolated. Furthermore, we made it a priority to practice self-care and took time to nurture our relationship as a couple. By focusing on small victories and celebrating our son's unique progress, we found strength and hope to continue our journey with positivity. We enrolled him in a nursery school, but we later withdraw due to his unwillingness to participate and lack of attention. We then decided to create a structured and supportive learning environment at home. We tailored activities to his interests and needs, focusing on building his communication and social skills. We also sought the guidance of specialized therapists who could provide more personalized and effective strategies to support his development. In 2023, we met an experienced Sped Teacher, as part of our search for a nearby playschool for Zed. Zed’s Sped teacher approach was notably different from the previous therapies we had tried because she focused on creating a personalized learning environment tailored to Zed's unique needs and interests. She employed a combination of play-based learning and sensory activities that engaged Zed more effectively. Her empathetic and patient demeanor helped Zed feel more comfortable and willing to participate in the activities.

Zed’s teachers helped us understand Zed's perspective and provided us with guidance on how to assist him with his behavior. It is our responsibility as parents to make the necessary adjustments, and the child will follow suit. Despite the simplicity of the logic, it is challenging. However, the simplest things are always the most significant. We dedicated ourselves to be present for Zed at all times.  A Learning Center has offered us the opportunity to partner with them during the third quarter of 2023, and as such, we look forward to help more children on the spectrum. The center provides individualized education plans, incorporating evidence-based practices and therapies that focus on enhancing communication, social skills, and adaptive behaviors. Additionally, the center fosters a supportive and inclusive environment where children can thrive and develop at their own pace. Other parents can support their children by establishing a consistent routine that provides a sense of stability and predictability. It's also beneficial to engage in activities that align with the child's interests, making learning more enjoyable and effective. Seeking out professional guidance and joining support groups can provide valuable insights and emotional support from others who are navigating similar journeys. LITTLE LIONS LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER was created! It's mission is to provide a nurturing and inclusive environment where children with diverse learning needs can grow and thrive. The center aims to offer tailored educational programs that foster each child's unique strengths and abilities. It is dedicated to empowering families by providing comprehensive support and resources.

My journey into the world of special education was deeply personal. As a parent of a child with autism, I have first hand experience first hand on challenges and triumphs that come with raising a child with unique needs. My desire to provide my son with the best possible education and support has led me to pursue a degree in special education.

Beyond my personal experience, I am driven by a passion for creating inclusive and supportive learning environments for all children. I believe that every child, regardless of his abilities, deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. By studying special education, I hope to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to establish my own learning center that caters to the specific needs of children with autism and other disabilities.

My goal is to create a space where children can feel safe, valued, and empowered to learn and grow. I envision a center that offers evidence-based interventions, individualized education plans, and a supportive community for both the children and their families. Through my studies, I am eager to learn about effective teaching strategies, behavior management techniques, and the latest advancements in the field of special education.

Ultimately, my motivation to study special education is rooted in a deep commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of children with disabilities and their families. I believe that by pursuing this degree, I can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society where all children have the opportunity to thrive.

-Mommy Dianne