Ms. Chris is an Occupational Therapist at BDI Playhouse. Chris attended University of Illinois at Chicago. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy and extensive continuing education hours in adapted seating and mobility. Chris has over 25 years experience working in the educational setting supporting the success of children with a wide range of needs and abilities. In her time away from work, she enjoys raising her 3 children with her husband Joe. Traveling to state parks and national historical sites is a favorite. Chris also loves to spoil her two silly dogs.
What Is Your Favorite Quote? “Rivers know this: there is no hurry. We shall get there some day.” ―A.A. Milne
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given? When I was young and new to working with children who were very fragile, I would occasionally criticize my own mistakes / learning moments out loud. During this same period of time, my workplace partnered with a local senior supported living center and brought in volunteers whose role was to function as a “classroom grandparent”, offering hugs, praise, and the occasional hairy eyeball to any student in need. One time Grandma Queen heard my “own worst critic” words following a difficult moment and she firmly grasped my hands and commanded: “Never speak down about yourself. You hurt yourself more than you realize and it gives others the permission to do it as well.” We should all be so lucky to have a Grandma Queen grace our journey.
Use three words to describe the best characteristics of your personality: Patient, Problem Solver, and Creative