My personal approach as a Developmental Services Worker is rooted in respect, dignity, and kindness. I believe that every person deserves to be seen, heard, and valued for who they are. Individuals with disabilities are often misunderstood or overlooked, but I see their strength, courage, and potential. As a support worker, I aim to be someone they can trust—someone who listens, observes, and supports them without judgment. I try to always bring a calm and positive presence, and I take time to understand each person’s unique way of communicating, especially when words are not used.

One of my key strengths is observation. During my school-setting placement, I worked with students who had severe disabilities—some were non-verbal and had very limited movement. Because of this, I learned to pay very close attention to even small changes in their facial expressions. I noticed that these small changes sometimes meant they were having seizures. When that happened, I stayed calm, counted the duration, and documented it right away. This helped the staff respond quickly and gave important information to their care team. That experience showed me how important it is to truly see and support each individual, even when their communication is subtle.

Two guiding principles that I follow in my work are “meet people where they are” and “honor each person’s dignity.”Meeting people where they are means understanding their unique needs and abilities without trying to force them to fit into a system. Honoring dignity means treating every individual with the same respect I would give a family member or a friend. These principles remind me that support is not just about tasks—it’s about relationships and care.

I believe that being a DSW is not just a job—it’s a way of life. It requires patience, empathy, and a deep respect for human diversity. My goal is to continue learning, growing, and giving my best to the people I support. I feel proud to walk this path and to stand beside those who need a strong and compassionate ally.

This hands-on cooking activity was designed for high school students with severe developmental disabilities. I guided students through creating a layered dessert while supporting fine motor skill development, sensory engagement, and personal choice. I also practiced close observation and seizure response during this session, helping ensure safety.