As a Certified Child Life Specialist since 2003, Early Childhood Intervention Specialist, a specialist in child development, bestselling kid lit author with an MA in Human Sciences and an emphasis in Psychology and Education, kids are my business. As a homeschooling mom to three neurodiverse children, I live what I teach and preach. Backyard Academy is dedicated to creating resources designed to fit kids of multiple ages and abilities. We believe in empowering every child to learn in a way that works best for them and reject the notion of a one-size-fits-all learning experience. Cookie cutters are awesome for cookies but have no place in education. LTL-D5NPM8R7

In our classroom, we embrace a variety of approaches to empower children to learn in their own unique ways. We understand the importance of fidgets, flexible seating, and creating a safe space for questions and for meltdowns. My teaching philosophy prioritizes making learning interesting, engaging, and memorable. I advocate for child-led and play-based learning, emphasizing games, multi-sensory experiences, and creative pursuits.

In our classroom we celebrate neurodiversity, recognizing that everyone's unique wiring is valuable and essential. We encourage "outside-the-box" thinking, and take pride in fostering an environment that is inclusive and supportive.

Above all, I strive to impart the value of kindness, empathy, and advocacy to each and every child I encounter. I place great importance on standing up for marginalized individuals and communities, and believe in making a positive impact both locally and globally.

I am a bestselling author of multiple books created for children of all abilities that teach safety skills. My books have been endorsed by Safe and Sound Schools and Safe Havens International, the largest school safety organization in the world. My books are carried in school curriculums across the globe, and several have been recognized as one of the top 50 all-time best school safety books of all time.

As an educator, my most amazing moment has been working with my three neurodiverse young children as a homeschool educator and learning what adaptions work best for each of them, how they each learn, and what they need to be successful as they grow.

I have my BA in sociology with a minor in Early Childhood Intervention and my MA in human sciences with an emphasis in psychology and education. I have taken multiple in-services, classes, conferences and educations regarding topics related to children and child development, including but not limited to: trauma informed care and education, autism, Early Childhood Intervention, behavior intervention, SPED, sensory integration, developmental ages and stages, speech, OT, PT, developmental services, death, dying and bereavement and children, health education, family systems, interpersonal communication, systemic care, DIR floor time, autism and a PDA profile, ADHD, dyslexia, behavior interventions and support, neurodivergent affirming care, infant and neonatal mental health, preschool trainings and support, potty training, parenting, drug/alcohol use, CPS, FASD, school safety and security, writing social stories and social narratives, the Explosive Child, declarative language, homeschooling, homeschooling neurodivergent children, screen time, sensory integration, cultural sensitivity, feeding, SPD, and more.

Providing Educational Resources for All Ages and Abilities
As a family, we understand the challenges that come with traditional learning for some students and their families. That's why we're committed to creating resources that help kids, families, and teachers teach and learn in the best way possible for them. Our goal is to provide products and resources that cater to learners of all ages and abilities, and encourage students and families to learn and play together.

Questions, concerns, ideas, requests, or comments? We would love to hear from you! You can contact Backyard Academy at BackyardAcademyEdu@gmail.com