Featured RETA Members
Apr-Jun 2024: Ooi Jiarou
Ooi Jiarou
Fellow
With over 9 years of expertise as an Early Interventionist, Educational Therapist, and Handwriting Specialist, Jiarou is dedicated to delivering exceptional services to children with special needs. Focused on extending support to families dealing with special needs or learning difficulties in their home environments, Jiarou possesses over 10 years of experience mentoring professionals in the Specific Learning Differences (SpLD) field.
Why did you choose to work in the field of SpLD?
“To Make An Immediate Impact On Children With Special Needs”
As an Educational therapist, Early interventionist, and handwriting specialist, I am extremely passionate about working with children with special needs and their families. Demonstrating a patient and friendly approach throughout the sessions, my work enables children with learning disabilities and their families to receive much-needed support in navigating any specific challenges the child may be facing.
What is one thing that never fails to make you smile in the work that you do?
I am experiencing the satisfaction of working with children with special needs every day especially when I get to see their tiny accomplishments. This is a really fulfilling sector, where I can truly make a difference.
What do you think is the most important quality/value/belief a person must have when working in the field of Special Education?
Dignity – The educator who works in the field of special education must treat all students with dignity and respect, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, gender diversity, disorder, appearance, age, religion, origin, abilities, or achievements.
What is the one thing you would do to improve special education in your country?
All countries should ensure inclusive quality education for children with special needs so that they can learn in the mainstream school system and fully participate as equal members and active participants in their communities and society. As a result, it is critical to create an inclusive society. What I can do is create public awareness in the hope that the public would understand people with disabilities.
What motivated you to become a RETA member and how has it benefitted you?
It is critical for me to maintain on good teaching practices and pedagogical knowledge in the field of special education as an Educational Therapist who works with students who have dyslexia and/or special needs. RETA is an excellent platform for not only sharing resources/articles and trainings/short courses, it also allows us to connect with all practitioners from different countries.
What advice would you give someone who has special educational needs or lives/works with people with special educational needs?
Dear parents, It is not your responsibility as a parent to “fix” your child’s impairment, but rather to provide them with the social and emotional skills they need to overcome obstacles. Over time, your child can become stronger and more resilient by facing and overcoming challenges.
Never forget that your actions and reactions to challenges has a significant impact on your child. While a positive attitude will not solve the problems associated with a learning disability, it can give your child hope and assurance that things will get better and that they will eventually succeed.