Hello, I’m Anna!
I work as a teacher assistant for children with special educational needs at Mozaika School in Odessa. I am 47 years old. I studied at the Faculty of Psychology and Pedagogy at the Slavic State Pedagogical Institute.
What strengths do you need in your work?
As a teacher assistant, effective communication with people, the ability to handle challenging situations in the classroom, a creative approach to teaching, responsibility, patience, flexibility, a positive mindset, and self-confidence are essential.
What do you do as a teacher assistant at Mozaika?
I support the teacher and help students adapt to the learning process, facilitate material comprehension, create a comfortable learning environment, collaborate with teachers and parents, and provide emotional support to the children.
- Assist the teacher in organizing and conducting individual and group lessons.
- Prepare materials that meet the needs of children with special educational needs.
- Conduct corrective activities under the guidance of the teacher.
- Participate in the preparation and organization of school events, celebrations, and projects.
- Collaborate with other teachers and specialists to ensure comprehensive student development.
- Support each student’s individual development plan.
- Ensure children’s comfort and support during meals.
- Provide necessary assistance to children with hygiene routines, such as hand washing, toilet use, and changing clothes. Foster independence in these activities while offering support to those who need it.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
What I enjoy most is being able to respond quickly to a child’s needs and collaborate with the team to achieve our goals.
What are the main challenges for a young specialist in this role?
Working as a teaching assistant in Mozaika’s special education school, I discover new ways every day to support children and create a comfortable environment for their development. The biggest challenge is finding the key to each child’s heart, as every child is unique and requires an individual approach. It can be difficult to balance providing support with fostering the child’s independence and to find effective communication methods when words aren’t enough. Yet this is also the greatest joy of the job: seeing a child take small but important steps forward, becoming more confident and open to the world. When a child smiles for the first time in response or achieves what once seemed impossible, you realize this is the best job in the world!
Would you recommend Mozaika to young specialists?
Yes, I would. This profession provides a strong foundation and valuable skills for working with children with special educational needs.