Hello,
Are you the parent of a young child, age birth to 5 years, who is not progressing or behaving in ways you might expect? Have you suspected that your child is delayed in their language or play skills? Does your child struggle to follow directions, act safely in your home or around his/her peers, or have difficulty playing or making relationships with their peers? Have you suspected that your child may be on the autism spectrum but don't want your child "labeled" at such an early age? You are not alone, and I may be able to help.
For over 25 years I have provided direct and in-home support for parents with young children who present with a variety of differences and special needs, and helped parents learn new skills in supporting their children's growth and development. Through working in conjunction with a variety of specialists (speech/language therapists, occupational and behavioral specialists, physical therapists, ect) I have developed a wealth of tips and techniques that can provide enormous benefit to helping your child learn new and important skills that will increase their success throughout daily home/other routines and increase their readiness to enter preschool or kindergarten settings. Just as important, I have skills and information that will help you feel more empowered, as a parent, to help your child.
Qualifications:
-current licensure and employment through the state of Oregon to provide early intervention and early childhood special education services for children ages birth to 5 years.
-25+ years of experience of working with young children and their families in a variety of home and educational settings, with a focus on home-based interventions
-20 years of experience in assessing and identifying children on the autism spectrum and providing in-home support to their families/caregivers
-Masters degree in Interdisciplinary Studies of Early Childhood Education, which has a focus on family-directed support
What I can offer you:
-observation-based assessment of what your child needs and how YOU can help them
-specific and case-tested interventions to help your child increase their abilities in language/communication, following directions, positive behavior growth, and cognitive skills. This may include some direct interaction/play with your child (for initial assessment purposes) followed up by in-person coaching in your home or other settings (ex. childcare, relative homes, ect)
-advice on other referrals for additional interventions if needed
From my experience, most parents have the resources in their own home to help their child increase their abilities, but just need someone who can see the solutions to problems that they may be too close to see for themselves. Just as an athlete has untapped potential that a coach can bring out and foster. I am available to be that person for you and your child.
Contact:
Rich Ray, M.Ed/Early Intervention, Early Childhood Specialist
503-927-9903
mybestkidnow@gmail.com