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Staff Spotlight
Karina
In-home Therapeutic Aide
Karina has been working for Pacekids since October 2012 and was instrumental in Rose’s encouraging progress.
When in your life did you know or learn that you wanted to work with children?
“I think when I was a kid my experience with my family in my hometown was very valuable because I have a special needs brother. My parents, all my siblings and I chose to care for him in our home with our own resources. My family all aspired to be doctors or teachers, so I studied to be a language teacher.”
Did anyone or anything specifically inspire you to work with children with diverse needs?
“During my childhood my mother was sick, so I had to look after myself and my siblings. I always wanted to work with vulnerable people to help them be strong to be able to advocate for themselves. I think I am a very empathetic person – that’s what I identify myself as.”
What is your favorite thing about working with children?
“I mostly like working with children because I have the opportunity to be a positive part of their lives. I just like that feeling that I am connecting with kids. They are pure souls, they are spontaneous, and their kindness is very straight forward. Children are the most honest people you can deal with – you never see an expression that isn’t sincere. I just like to be with children all the time.”
What is one thing you want everyone to know about children with diverse needs?
“Children with diverse needs are as intelligent as everyone else. All they need is kindness and respect.”
“Karina gave me hope, too. She really pushed me as a mom, and reminded me that, just because Rose is different, you can still do things with her.” – Kim, Pacekids parent
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