Join Northwest Center Kids for the first annual virtual Early Childhood Summit 2021: Tools & Best Practices for Inclusion. Professionals from our Early Learning, Early Supports, and IMPACT teams will share resources, tools, and training suitable for educators, therapists, advocates, and families who want to include and support children with and without disabilities in the classroom and community. This educational summit is free of charge.
Highlights of the three-day virtual summit will include:
Highlights of the three-day virtual summit will include:
- Strategies for inclusive early learning and development in the classroom, home, and community
- Supporting family engagement in daily activities and routines
- Challenging behaviors
- Sensory strategies
- Supporting transitions from the hospital to home for babies in the NICU
- Infant and early childhood mental health and trauma-informed practices
This educational summit is free of charge.
Early Childhood 2021 Summit Schedule
Thursday, October 7
9-11 a.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Beyond the Sensory Table: Sensory, Learning, and the Brain (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Kelsey Henderson-Wasmund, BA, IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant & Amanda Harper-Phillips, OTR/L – Occupational Therapist & CHERISH Therapist, Early Supports
This training takes a deep dive into exploring the eight senses, how they develop as children grow, and how they relate to how children learn. Along with learning more about how the senses support learning, participants will also learn ways to meet children’s sensory needs to support self-regulation. Language interpretation: Somali
11 a.m-12 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): IMPACT (Inclusion Mentorship Program for increasing Access in Childcare Team): An Introduction and Discussion (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Liz Carley, OTD, OTR/L – IMPACT Program Coordinator, Mental Health Consultant & Amy Bender, MA, IMH-E® (IV-Policy) – Director, IMPACT Program
Learn about the Northwest Center Kids IMPACT program, which provides consultation and professional development training to child care and early learning programs across King County. This unique model of child care health consultation supports child care providers in building their skills and increasing their confidence to enroll children with special needs and to meet the needs of all children enrolled in their programs. This session will include a panel discussion with child care providers who have received consultation and training services from IMPACT, best practices for inclusive early learning, and questions from participants. Language interpretation: Somali
1-3 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Prenatal Exposure: The Brain and Behavior (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Kelsey Henderson-Wasmund, BA, IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant & Jennifer Nash, PhD, OTR/L – Occupational Therapist, Early Supports
This training will cover some of the most common substances seen in prenatal exposure, including alcohol. We will discuss how these substances impact the brain of the developing child and how that impact is displayed through behaviors.
5-7 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Practical Skills for Challenging Behaviors in the Classroom: Supporting Children of All Abilities (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Michelle Duhon, M.A.Ed., IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant & Erica Yuen, M.Ed., IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant
Challenging behaviors in child care can be the most difficult and frustrating struggle early learning providers face. Join us as we present practical tools and research-based strategies geared toward positive, proactive behavior management in the classroom. Participants will learn to identify the function of behavior by examining triggers and effects, as well as developing new mental models for assessing behavior by shifting perspective to view behaviors through a sensory lens. Participants will have opportunities to engage in exercises and collaborative conversations that build upon these ideas and generate solutions for challenges they have experienced in the classroom.
Friday, October 8
9-11 a.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Hospital-to-Home: Supporting Transitions Home for Babies from the NICU (STARS-Approved)
Presented by Sara Circelli, M.A. – Hospital-to-Home Site Supervisor, Natalie Miller, M.S., CCC-SLP – Hospital-to-Home Clinical Supervisor, and Madeleine Jean, RN, BSN – Registered Public Health Nurse
This presentation will focus on the work of Northwest Center’s Hospital-to-Home team, which supports babies and their caregivers transitioning home after a NICU stay. We will explore the research behind a supported transition, the processes our team has developed to address families’ needs and plan for their future, as well as information about the high prevalence of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders in this population and how Early Supports can support caregivers. Language interpretation: Mandarin, Somali
11 a.m.-12 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Beyond “Self-Care”: Supporting the Mental Health of ECE Teachers with Evidenced-Based Tools (Not STARS-Approved)
Presented by Katie Cain, Pre-K Lead Teacher & Aaron McAbee, Early Learning Instructor
The mental health of early childhood educators is an essential yet under-emphasized best practice in the care and education of children in early childhood classrooms. During this session, participants will discuss the importance of access to mental health supports in the early childhood field, the positive implications of strategies such as Reflective Practice for teachers, and the symptoms of compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress. Language interpretation: Mandarin, Somali
1-2:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Group Mealtimes: Picky Eating and other Special Considerations. (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Erica Yuen, M.Ed., IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant & Cailey Marsh, OTR/L – Occupational Therapist, Early Supports
Group mealtimes in child care are an important opportunity to support healthy relationships with food and children’s self-help skills, engage in meaningful conversations, and promote social inclusion. In this session, participants will learn how to navigate special considerations at mealtime so that all children can fully participate. First, participants will examine strategies for supporting picky eaters and how to promote food exploration for all children. Next, we will explore ways to create a culturally inclusive mealtime. Finally, participants will learn strategies for promoting safety and inclusion for children with allergies and individual care plans at mealtime. Throughout the training, participants will be able to explore case studies to help them build a tool kit for inclusive group mealtimes. Language interpretation: Mandarin, Somali
2:30-4:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Connections Model: From Regulation to Interaction to Learning (STARS-Approved)
Presented by Kayla Buswell Khan, MS, CCC-SLP – Director of Business Operations, Early Supports, and Michelle Duhon, M.A.Ed., IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant
The Connections Model is a neurological framework for learning (and teaching). This session will focus on the building blocks to learning, ways to identify why learning isn't happening, and strategies to promote learning in any area. Basic principles of brain development will build the foundation for advanced learning in the areas of co-regulation, self-regulation, interaction, and skill development in young children ages birth-5. Scenarios will include specific strategies to support learning in children who over respond, under respond, sensory seek, and are avoidant. Language interpretation: Mandarin, Somali
Saturday, October 9
9-11 a.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST):Beyond the Sensory Table: Classroom Strategies for Sensory Play (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Madeleine Jean, RN, BSN – Registered Public Health Nurse, IMPACT & Michelle Duhon, M.A.Ed., IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant
Sensory play is an essential part of early childhood development, and it can be offered in a variety of ways. In this training, we will learn how sensory systems develop, explore how sensory experiences support child development and learning, and discover creative methods for offering sensory play. Participants will participants will have an opportunity for Q&A and will receive handouts to support the use of these strategies in their classrooms. Language interpretation: Spanish
12:30-2 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Introduction to Inclusion in Early Learning (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Kelsey Henderson-Wasmund, BA, IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant & Liz Carley, OTD, OTR/L – IMPACT Program Coordinator, Mental Health Consultant
This training introduces the concept of inclusion in early learning through an equity lens, sharing the benefits of inclusive practices in early learning for both typically and non-typically developing children through research and practical experience. We will discuss barriers to inclusion and how to problem-solve those challenges, as well as environmental adaptations and effective practices to promote early learning inclusion. Participants will learn concrete techniques for increasing inclusion in their programs to best serve children of all abilities. Language interpretation: Spanish
2:30-4 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Child Care Crisis in America: Advocating for a Better Future (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Michelle Duhon, M.A.Ed., IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant & Liz Carley, OTD, OTR/L – IMPACT Program Coordinator, Mental Health Consultant
Why is child care so expensive, and yet teachers so greatly underpaid? Why is it so hard to find quality child care? What can we do to help break down these barriers so both families and providers can flourish? Join us for an informative session where we will explore the challenges facing both parents and child care providers in America. Participants will get answers to these difficult questions and gain resources to get more involved in advocating for expanded access to child care. Language interpretation: Mandarin, Somali
Thursday, October 7
9-11 a.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Beyond the Sensory Table: Sensory, Learning, and the Brain (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Kelsey Henderson-Wasmund, BA, IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant & Amanda Harper-Phillips, OTR/L – Occupational Therapist & CHERISH Therapist, Early Supports
This training takes a deep dive into exploring the eight senses, how they develop as children grow, and how they relate to how children learn. Along with learning more about how the senses support learning, participants will also learn ways to meet children’s sensory needs to support self-regulation. Language interpretation: Somali
11 a.m-12 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): IMPACT (Inclusion Mentorship Program for increasing Access in Childcare Team): An Introduction and Discussion (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Liz Carley, OTD, OTR/L – IMPACT Program Coordinator, Mental Health Consultant & Amy Bender, MA, IMH-E® (IV-Policy) – Director, IMPACT Program
Learn about the Northwest Center Kids IMPACT program, which provides consultation and professional development training to child care and early learning programs across King County. This unique model of child care health consultation supports child care providers in building their skills and increasing their confidence to enroll children with special needs and to meet the needs of all children enrolled in their programs. This session will include a panel discussion with child care providers who have received consultation and training services from IMPACT, best practices for inclusive early learning, and questions from participants. Language interpretation: Somali
1-3 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Prenatal Exposure: The Brain and Behavior (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Kelsey Henderson-Wasmund, BA, IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant & Jennifer Nash, PhD, OTR/L – Occupational Therapist, Early Supports
This training will cover some of the most common substances seen in prenatal exposure, including alcohol. We will discuss how these substances impact the brain of the developing child and how that impact is displayed through behaviors.
5-7 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Practical Skills for Challenging Behaviors in the Classroom: Supporting Children of All Abilities (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Michelle Duhon, M.A.Ed., IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant & Erica Yuen, M.Ed., IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant
Challenging behaviors in child care can be the most difficult and frustrating struggle early learning providers face. Join us as we present practical tools and research-based strategies geared toward positive, proactive behavior management in the classroom. Participants will learn to identify the function of behavior by examining triggers and effects, as well as developing new mental models for assessing behavior by shifting perspective to view behaviors through a sensory lens. Participants will have opportunities to engage in exercises and collaborative conversations that build upon these ideas and generate solutions for challenges they have experienced in the classroom.
Friday, October 8
9-11 a.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Hospital-to-Home: Supporting Transitions Home for Babies from the NICU (STARS-Approved)
Presented by Sara Circelli, M.A. – Hospital-to-Home Site Supervisor, Natalie Miller, M.S., CCC-SLP – Hospital-to-Home Clinical Supervisor, and Madeleine Jean, RN, BSN – Registered Public Health Nurse
This presentation will focus on the work of Northwest Center’s Hospital-to-Home team, which supports babies and their caregivers transitioning home after a NICU stay. We will explore the research behind a supported transition, the processes our team has developed to address families’ needs and plan for their future, as well as information about the high prevalence of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders in this population and how Early Supports can support caregivers. Language interpretation: Mandarin, Somali
11 a.m.-12 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Beyond “Self-Care”: Supporting the Mental Health of ECE Teachers with Evidenced-Based Tools (Not STARS-Approved)
Presented by Katie Cain, Pre-K Lead Teacher & Aaron McAbee, Early Learning Instructor
The mental health of early childhood educators is an essential yet under-emphasized best practice in the care and education of children in early childhood classrooms. During this session, participants will discuss the importance of access to mental health supports in the early childhood field, the positive implications of strategies such as Reflective Practice for teachers, and the symptoms of compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress. Language interpretation: Mandarin, Somali
1-2:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Group Mealtimes: Picky Eating and other Special Considerations. (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Erica Yuen, M.Ed., IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant & Cailey Marsh, OTR/L – Occupational Therapist, Early Supports
Group mealtimes in child care are an important opportunity to support healthy relationships with food and children’s self-help skills, engage in meaningful conversations, and promote social inclusion. In this session, participants will learn how to navigate special considerations at mealtime so that all children can fully participate. First, participants will examine strategies for supporting picky eaters and how to promote food exploration for all children. Next, we will explore ways to create a culturally inclusive mealtime. Finally, participants will learn strategies for promoting safety and inclusion for children with allergies and individual care plans at mealtime. Throughout the training, participants will be able to explore case studies to help them build a tool kit for inclusive group mealtimes. Language interpretation: Mandarin, Somali
2:30-4:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Connections Model: From Regulation to Interaction to Learning (STARS-Approved)
Presented by Kayla Buswell Khan, MS, CCC-SLP – Director of Business Operations, Early Supports, and Michelle Duhon, M.A.Ed., IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant
The Connections Model is a neurological framework for learning (and teaching). This session will focus on the building blocks to learning, ways to identify why learning isn't happening, and strategies to promote learning in any area. Basic principles of brain development will build the foundation for advanced learning in the areas of co-regulation, self-regulation, interaction, and skill development in young children ages birth-5. Scenarios will include specific strategies to support learning in children who over respond, under respond, sensory seek, and are avoidant. Language interpretation: Mandarin, Somali
Saturday, October 9
9-11 a.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST):Beyond the Sensory Table: Classroom Strategies for Sensory Play (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Madeleine Jean, RN, BSN – Registered Public Health Nurse, IMPACT & Michelle Duhon, M.A.Ed., IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant
Sensory play is an essential part of early childhood development, and it can be offered in a variety of ways. In this training, we will learn how sensory systems develop, explore how sensory experiences support child development and learning, and discover creative methods for offering sensory play. Participants will participants will have an opportunity for Q&A and will receive handouts to support the use of these strategies in their classrooms. Language interpretation: Spanish
12:30-2 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Introduction to Inclusion in Early Learning (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Kelsey Henderson-Wasmund, BA, IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant & Liz Carley, OTD, OTR/L – IMPACT Program Coordinator, Mental Health Consultant
This training introduces the concept of inclusion in early learning through an equity lens, sharing the benefits of inclusive practices in early learning for both typically and non-typically developing children through research and practical experience. We will discuss barriers to inclusion and how to problem-solve those challenges, as well as environmental adaptations and effective practices to promote early learning inclusion. Participants will learn concrete techniques for increasing inclusion in their programs to best serve children of all abilities. Language interpretation: Spanish
2:30-4 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST): Child Care Crisis in America: Advocating for a Better Future (STARS-Approved Training)
Presented by Michelle Duhon, M.A.Ed., IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant & Liz Carley, OTD, OTR/L – IMPACT Program Coordinator, Mental Health Consultant
Why is child care so expensive, and yet teachers so greatly underpaid? Why is it so hard to find quality child care? What can we do to help break down these barriers so both families and providers can flourish? Join us for an informative session where we will explore the challenges facing both parents and child care providers in America. Participants will get answers to these difficult questions and gain resources to get more involved in advocating for expanded access to child care. Language interpretation: Mandarin, Somali
Professional Development & Learning For:
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Educators & Therapists
Teachers, administrators, and therapists can learn about creating inclusive classroom environments and individualized support to meet the needs of all children and families.
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Advocates
Policymakers, administrators, and inclusion leaders who strive to lead inclusive organizations and support child development professionals will gain resources and knowledge for building inclusion into everyday practices that impact children and families.
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Families
Parents and caregivers with young children can learn more about supporting their child’s learning and development.
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Early Childhood Summit Presenters
Amy Bender, MA, IMH-E® (IV-Policy) – Director, IMPACT Program
Amy earned a BA in European History and Psychology from the University of California, San Diego and a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Childhood Psychopathology from Antioch University, Los Angeles. Amy has over 14 years’ experience supporting children and families through early learning programs, day treatment preschool settings, and providing direct therapeutic services to children and families. She joined Northwest Center shortly after she moved to Seattle in 2011 and has been a passionate advocate for advancing high-quality early learning for all children. When NWC Kids launched IMPACT (Inclusion Mentorship Program for increasing Access in Childcare Team) in 2018, Amy took the lead in launching the program. When not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family, doing yoga, and getting outdoors.
Kayla Buswell Khan, MS, CCC-SLP – Director of Business Operations, Early Supports
Leveraging her background in clinical practice, Kayla leads technology development, systems integration, and business operations for Northwest Center Kids Early Learning. Prior to running Business Operations, she worked for Northwest Center as a speech-language pathologist, a role she previously served at the Hearing, Speech and Deafness Center in Seattle (HSDC) and the River School in Washington. D.C. As Preschool Program Lead at HSDC, Kayla pioneered a first-of-its-kind curriculum for an early childhood classroom aimed at integrating specialized instruction for communication delays and disorders in a classroom environment. Kayla has a BA in Psychology and a BS in Speech and Hearing Sciences from the University of Washington and a MS in Speech Language Pathology from Gallaudet University. She is fluent in American Sign Language.
Katie Cain – Pre-K Lead Teacher
Katie is currently working toward a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. She enjoys practicing Spanish with the kids at Northwest Center, teaching new vocabulary words, creating stories together, telling jokes, and generally being silly with her students. Outside of work, Katie enjoys reading poetry, going to live music, traveling, cooking, and trying adventurous foods from around the world.
Liz Carley, OTD, OTR/L – IMPACT Program Coordinator, Mental Health Consultant
Liz earned a Doctor of Occupational Therapy from the University of Southern California, where she previously earned her Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees in Occupational Therapy. A Seattle native, she spent 18 years in Los Angeles, where she practiced in community-based mental health, providing occupational therapy mental health services to children and families and was Assistant Professor of Clinical Occupational Therapy and Director of Admissions for the Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy at USC. Liz is excited to help promote social and emotional well-being and secure and nurturing relationships between children and caregivers through her role in mental health with the IMPACT program. She enjoys spending time in nature and discovering great restaurants with her friends and family.
Sara Circelli, M.A. – Hospital-to-Home Site Supervisor
Sara grew up in Maine and has lived in the Pacific Northwest for more than 10 years. Sara has a bachelor’s degree from Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts and a master’s from the University of Southern California. Sara co-leads Northwest Center’s Hospital-to-Home program, working with the youngest babies referred for Early Supports services. She has extensive training in recognizing and supporting Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders and is a certified provider of Promoting First Relationships (PFR), a University of Washington program designed to help caregivers best support their young child’s social-emotional development. A Group Peer Support facilitator for parent support groups, Sara completed the four-day intensive Compassionate Bereavement Care Course from the MISS Foundation. Outside of work, Sara enjoys being with her husband and children, caring for her seven chickens, listening to podcasts, watching movies, taking pictures, working on various crafting projects, and exploring the great outdoors.
Michelle Duhon, M.A.Ed., IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant
For over a decade, Michelle has been dedicated to working in early learning through a variety of roles. She was born and raised in Orlando, FL where she began her career as a preschool teacher. After moving to Washington, she advanced her skills by completing her bachelor’s in Early Childhood & Family Studies at the University of Washington. While completing her degree, she worked as a Coach for Early Achievers, mentoring child care providers and teachers. She then spent time in South Florida as a School Director for a Reggio Emilia program before completing her Master’s in Early Childhood Education at the University of Colorado. Michelle is passionate about helping create high quality early learning opportunities for all children and working to expand access to child care throughout Washington and beyond. Outside of work, she enjoys the outdoors as much as possible by going on frequent hikes and camping trips. She also cares for her two fur babies, Django (chocolate lab) and Riley (calico cat).
Amanda Harper-Phillips, OTR/L – Occupational Therapist & CHERISH Therapist, Early Supports
Amanda earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Whitman College in Walla Walla, WA in 2003. She then earned her master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Washington in 2010. Amanda enjoyed her internship with Northwest Center ES so much, she jumped at the opportunity to join the team in early 2011. Amanda believes in the importance of family-centered care and working with children and their families in their homes and communities. In 2013, she was excited to help implement the CHERISH program at Northwest Center for foster children and caregivers. She is also a registered Circle of Security Parent Educator. Amanda grew up in Seattle. In her free time, she enjoys reading, playing board games, going to the beach, and playing Ultimate Frisbee with her husband.
Kelsey Henderson-Wasmund, BA, IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant
Born and raised in Washington state, Kelsey began her career in early childhood g in a private childcare setting while obtaining her bachelor’s in Human Development with a specialization in Early Childhood from Washington State University. Upon graduation, Kelsey joined a unique Early Head Start program in the Washington Corrections Center for Women (WCCW, working with incarcerated women and their young children in the Residential Parenting Program (RPP), supporting child development, and providing parenting support to families. Her next role was an Early Head Start Lead Teacher in White Center, a community just south of Seattle, supporting children and families from a diverse set of backgrounds with early intervention processes and classroom management. Kelsey is excited to work with IMPACT’s multidisciplinary team and to share her passion for inclusion in the classroom. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, water sports, baking, and being creative.
Madeleine Jean, RN, BSN – Registered Public Health Nurse
Growing up in Portland, OR, Madeleine always envisioned working with children. Inspired by personal travel experiences as a child, she imagined a career working with vulnerable populations. This inspiration eventually led her to an interest in nursing and ultimately, public health. In nursing school at Seattle University, Madeleine had the opportunity to study abroad in Bolivia and Peru, where she learned a great deal about international public health and the communities served and also practiced her medical Spanish skills. After working at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, Madeleine decided to pursue her passion for working in pediatrics and public health, which led her to join the IMPACT team in February 2020. When she’s not at work, Madeleine enjoys hiking, traveling to new places, cross-country skiing, and reading.
Cailey Marsh, OTR/L – Occupational Therapist, Early Supports
Cailey, who was born and raised in Seattle, loves the Pacific Northwest. She graduated from the University of Washington with a BA in Psychology and returned to UW soon after to complete her Master of Occupational Therapy degree. She has previously worked at a pediatric outpatient clinic and has experience in school district and hospital settings as well. Prior to pursuing her master’s degree, Cailey was a teacher at Northwest Center Kids Early Learning, where she grew to love working with young children and their families. Cailey is passionate about the early childhood years and believes strongly in Northwest Center’s work for inclusion. Cailey is trained in the SOS Approach to Feeding. In her free time, Cailey enjoys exploring the outdoors with her family and energetic puppy, baking, and reading.
Aaron McAbee – Early Learning Teacher, Infant/Waddler
Aaron McAbee, who has more than 32 years of experience in the early childhood field, joined Northwest Center Kids in 2017. Aaron has been working on-site in a classroom (a great deal of that time prior to being vaccinated) since May 2020—something that many, many other early childhood education (ECE) providers through Washington State have also accomplished—while at the same time earning a BA in Early Childhood Education at North Seattle College. “It is a hard time right now,” he says. “My goal is to make the classroom a better place for ECE workers, providing resources and hope for teachers who showed up and consistently do a great job during these hard times.” Aaron is a native of Seattle who enjoys watching movies in his free time.
Natalie Miller, M.S., CCC-SLP – Hospital-to-Home Clinical Supervisor
Natalie moved to the Pacific Northwest in 2016. She completed her clinical fellowship at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, where she worked inpatient and outpatient for over five years before transitioning to Early Supports at Northwest center. Her hospital experience includes a cross-trained approach with a focus on acute care diagnostics and treatment: working in intensive care units as well as with outpatient multidisciplinary teams such as Cerebral Palsy Clinic and Aerodigestive Clinic. Natalie specializes in videofluoroscopic swallowing studies and is trained in FEES. Additionally, she is a Certified Lactation Educator. Natalie is a team member of Seattle Children’s Hospital’s Swallow Team and concentrates in the assessment and treatment of pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders. Natalie is Clinical Supervisor and co-lead for the Hospital-to-Home™ team at NWC, a program that supports infants and families therapeutically and social-emotionally after a traumatic birth requiring hospitalization and/ or challenges throughout the post-partum period. Her experience in the community and through PMADs trainings have taught her the significance in bridging the gap between hospital to home and systems collaboration. She values teamwork in a family-centered model, working together toward functional goals in a supportive, home environment. Natalie adventures with family, friends, and her Labrador retriever and enjoys dance, biking, backpacking, and being out on the water.
Erica Yuen, M.Ed., IMH-E® – IMPACT Inclusion Consultant
Erica was born and raised in California, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Human Biology and Spanish at Stanford University. Erica began her career in early education as an in-home therapist for children with autism. After moving to Washington in order to complete her master’s degree in Special Education at the University of Washington, Erica has had the opportunity to develop programs to support learners of all ages in home, clinic, and school-based settings. She joined the IMPACT team in January 2020 and enjoys working with such a dedicated and talented team. In addition to her professional experience, Erica has experience coaching swimmers of diverse needs and abilities. She enjoys running, cooking, and spending time outdoors.
