About Me

My name is Katherine and I have been working with and teaching children for many years in a range of different roles. My first teaching job was when I was a teenager, as an ice skating coach for beginners! I have always had a passion for anything to do with the visual arts, and I have worked as an art teacher both in high schools and in after school programs for over 15 years. I have a passion for working with kids, particularly those who don't feel like they 'fit in' and I love using art to help kids connect, engage and have fun. I am a patient, caring, empathetic and mature mother of two with a passion for helping others.

What are some of my strengths and hobbies?

My biggest strength is my ability to listen to others, as this allows me to understand, empathize and help people more effectively. As a teacher I have always focused on building relationships first, as this creates a strong basis for learning to happen. I come with a broad life experience, including living as a sibling of someone with a disability, working as a teacher in various settings with a diverse range of students and being a mum of two amazing kids. In my spare time I love to draw, paint and craft with my kids. I am a keen surfer and love all sorts of water sports, including snorkelling, swimming and stand up paddle boarding.

What do I enjoy learning about?

I love reading about art and learning new art techniques and am always keen to try a new project (with mixed results!) I have recently completed some study in art therapy and love learning about how art can help people, especially kids, become more resilient and make connections with others. I would love to pursue more study in this area in the future. I love learning about what kids are into these days - Minecraft, Roblox, Lego - it's fascinating and amazing to see what ignites kids' passions and how it can help teach them skills while they're having fun.

Why do I like supporting children with an autism diagnosis and their families?

I find working with kids such a rewarding experience, because their enthusiasm and resilience always amazes me and makes me feel young as well! I love helping kids with ASD and other neurodiverse diagnoses to find a safe space to create and express themselves, where they don't have to try to just conform to the expectations of the neurotypical world. It's super rewarding and a great privilege to be able to use my skills and life experience to help kids and their families, and something I wish our family could have had when I was growing up!