JACKSON, Wyo. — Early childhood educators are often the first point of intervention for children with learning and behavioral differences. They are the ones who skillfully navigate the nuances of learning and behavior, tailoring their approach to allow children to explore, express themselves and work through their emotions. Today, we want to introduce you to Mathew, an educator at the Jackson Hole Children’s Museum who exemplifies this extraordinary approach.
Mathew pours his heart and soul into after-school and summer camp programs at the Jackson Hole Children’s Museum. His mission? Merging STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) concepts with play, thus allowing children to explore freely and express themselves in creative and meaningful ways. Art, self-expression and limitless curiosity serve as the building blocks of his approach, and, most importantly, it’s all about having fun.
Mathew’s impact on the children he guides is evident, but one story stands out. Nixon, an 8-year-old boy diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum, experienced a remarkable transformation under Mathew’s mentorship. Without explicit direction from Nixon’s mother, Mathew intuited Nixon’s unique needs and gently helped him with social behaviors and playground challenges.
“I know that this summer when Nixon goes to camp at the Children’s Museum, he’s going to be in a place where he’s safe, and he’s not going to get into trouble or he’s going to be redirected instead of punished because he feels safe with Mathew,” Suzanne Watts, Nixon’s parent, said.
The ability of Mathew and other early childhood educators to identify and address the diverse needs of neurodiverse children is an invaluable asset in the early childhood education landscape, allowing the space for children to explore and discover topics they’re passionate about. Affirming the individuality of each child paves the way for growing up feeling safe, secure and with high self-esteem. This approach contrasts with the outdated notion of telling children they’re “wrong” or “bad,” which can create lasting shame and psychological scars. It’s about creating a foundation of confidence, self-expression and curiosity that will carry them forward on their educational journey.
Early childhood educators like Mathew provide support that allows neurodiverse children to thrive, learn and grow into confident, capable adults. They represent the heart of a progressive, inclusive and forward-thinking approach to early education.
At the Jackson Hole Children’s Museum, and similar centers nationwide, children are learning, growing and celebrating their unique abilities thanks to educators like Mathew. To learn what you can do to support their efforts, visit https://championsforchildrenjh.com/teacheroes/.
