Image by Freepik
Find Your Tribe: A Girl Discovers Her Passion and a Mom Creates the Work and Play Special Needs Resource Center
I am so happy to collaborate with this mom to highlight an awesome girl who found her passion after her mom created the Work and Play Special Needs Resource Center. I will talk about this community center next week, but today I am focusing on Tessa, the daughter, and Misty, her mom. When I spoke to Misty on the phone, she described how people used to think giving her daughter some crayons and something to color was enough. This girl, like every child with special needs, has so much more to offer. This blog focuses on the amazing things Tessa can do and shines a light on her bright personality. Read Misty’s answers and see how her daughter has found her passion. Misty’s important advice to “find your tribe.” is true for everyone.
What are some of your child’s favorite activities?
Tessa loves spending time with both her neurotypical and neurodivergent friends. She is passionate about cheer and dance, with dance being her absolute favorite. She also enjoys spending time at the Work and Play Disability Community Center, where she feels truly connected and engaged.
What is something your child is good at doing that is not reflected on tests?
Tessa is incredibly perceptive and understanding. Even if she isn’t part of a conversation, she often listens and takes everything in. Testing doesn’t always reflect her full abilities, especially when teachers or professionals don’t understand how to properly engage her. For example, Tessa has been reading for years, but one school assumed she couldn’t because they didn’t know how to “hear” her responses. Beyond academics, she is an exceptional dancer and very artistic—talents that tests can’t measure.
If you could describe your child in three words, what would they be?
Sweet, Sassy, Smart.
How old was your child when you knew he/she had special needs?
I knew Tessa had Down syndrome prenatally. Unfortunately, the first response from the doctor was, “When would you like to take care of it?” It’s heartbreaking that this is still a common experience for many families, even today.
What is one piece of advice you have for someone with a newly diagnosed child?
Find your tribe. Connecting with other parents locally who are walking a similar path can be invaluable. They’ll share resources, tips, and emotional support that you just can’t get from Google or even Facebook groups. Somewhere like the Work and Play Disability Community Center is a great place to start.
How do you foster self-care? (either for yourself or your child or both)?
As a widow, mother, and founder of the Work and Play, self-care is often not in the cards for me. My focus is on Tessa, and I prioritize her well-being through therapies and ensuring she has plenty of time with friends.
What are ways to help promote social skills you have found effective for your child?
Participating in group activities like cheer, dance, and events at Work and Play has been incredibly beneficial for Tessa. These structured environments give her opportunities to practice social interactions in a supportive setting.
Are there any support groups you recommend for parents or children?
Local in-person groups are the most effective, like the Work and Play Disability Community Center. Work and Play offers a 12-step program for processing grief and other emotions that come with parenting neurodivergent children. There’s also a casual group to just hang out and chat, which isn’t as structured but is just as helpful.
What is one meal that everyone in your family likes to eat?
We have five main food groups in my house, especially for Tessa, who has sensory issues with food textures. This is quite common in children with Down syndrome or autism. Tessa likes “soft” foods, like chicken nuggets shaped like dinosaurs that must be microwaved, not oven-cooked. Other favorites include pizza, hamburgers, French fries, chips, and dip. She dislikes foods with mixed textures, like pasta or yogurt with bits of fruit.
Please share anything else you want people to know.
Tessa is an amazing kid with a big heart. She has a natural talent for dance, an eye for art, and a unique ability to bring people together. As a family, we love traveling, camping (or “glamping”), visiting waterparks, and spending time at parks. Tessa has taught me so much about patience, resilience, and joy. She is proof that challenges can also be gifts, and I feel lucky to be her mom.