We have a new Featured Professional to introduce you to! Nicole works with kids with special needs and graciously answered a few questions.

 

Fun and Function: Who are you and what is your profession?

Nicole Caldwell: Nicole Caldwell, M.Ed., and I am a School Autism Specialist.

 

Fun and Function: What company do you work with? Do you have a website to point us to?

NC: PositivelyAutism.com and Daily Autism Freebie.

 

FF: What is the nature of special needs you work with the most?

NC: The Autism Spectrum.

 

FF: What would you say is your biggest challenge in working with children with special needs?

NC: Getting information, support, and training to children in areas where services are few.

 

FF: What is your greatest joy in your job?

NC: Seeing my students making accomplishments such as saying or signing their first words, being successfully included in the classroom, or working hard to accomplish their goals.

 

FF: What has been the greatest help to you in your profession?

NC: When parents and teachers work together. Parents are truly the expert in their child, so having their input and collaboration is critical.

 

FF: Give us one tool you would hate to live without?

NC: Visual schedules and visual supports.

 

FF: If you could give one piece of advice to a parent who's child has just been diagnosed, what would it be?

NC: Don't panic! A diagnosis tells us almost NOTHING about your child's future potential. Take some time to process the news, then check out the Autism Speaks 100 Days Kit.

 

Nicole, thank you so much for taking the time to talk to us and all the readers here at Fun and Function.

If you would like to be a featured parent or professional, just let us know!