Tine Lopez has been working with children with special needs for almost 14 years, and now works as the site director at Easter Seals Southern California. She believes that all people can learn and experience success in life no matter what their physical, developmental or cognitive ability is.
Lopez thinks that Easter Seals is unique because they have a strong commitment to children and families that is based on empowerment, dignity and respect. “My goal is to work alongside parents and community partners to ensure children have the tools needed to thrive,” says Lopez.
One child who Lopez worked with had very extreme behaviors and was kicked out of four child care centers. After coming to Easter Seals and taking the Ages and Stages Questionnaire ®, his therapists and parents could better understand how to work with him. After further evaluation, they discovered he has Autism Spectrum Disorder and Oppositional Defiance Disorder. After getting this information, they were able to help his teachers understand him and help his parents support him properly.
Many families at Easter Seals Southern California face issues due to lack of funding and parental rights. Some families aren’t able to get the services they need or the representation they need to move forward with helping their children.
Lopez worked as a preschool teacher for three years, was a trainer and mentor for five years, has provided trainings in all areas of development, and held a position as a mental health and disabilities specialist in Head Start and Early Head Start migrant programs before coming to Easter Seals. Lopez has an AA degree in early childhood education, a BA in Human Development, and a MA ED specializing in early childhood education.
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