“Not Just a School, It’s an Extended Family.”
AN INTERVIEW WITH SAVANNAH’S MOM, TAMARA HARRIMAN
Tell us a little about your family and about Savannah.
We are the Harrimans, a family of 4 (dad, mom and two brilliantly gorgeous girls). Chris works for Sunshine School & Development Center. My name is Tamara, I’m a stay at home mom. Savannah is 4 years old. She has a younger sister named Esther, who's 17 months. Savannah is a vibrant little lady. She loves her family and friends. She likes to play and learn new games. Savannah has a great ear for melody and tones. Music is her jam. She loves singing, dancing and twirling. Savannah is an awesome big sister. And she loves animals.
What things has Sunshine School been able to work on with your family?
Our family works with three programs, through Sunshine School. 1) Gypsie Robinson, LCSW, Licensed Play Therapist has been working with our family to guide Savannah in developing her confidence, emotional awareness and expressing emotions appropriately. 2) PAT has allowed for our family to gain knowledge of age appropriate milestones. Giving us different activities and information about how to encourage and develop those milestones. Also, PAT gives us the opportunity to engage with other parents to expand our knowledge. 3) As a preschooler in one of Sunshine School’s Arkansas Better Chance classes, Savannah has matured. She shows her independence in her daily life skills. She enjoys learning.
What growth have you seen since being involved with the Sunshine School - both the PAT program and ABC program?
For me, my confidence as a mom has grown. Being a mom is hard. Being a working mom is hard. Being a stay at home mom is hard. PAT encouraged me to let go of the reigns and enjoy each stage my girl(s) grow through. I'd say for Savannah her independence, knowledge and awareness of self have grown.
What do you wish others knew about the Sunshine School?
Sunshine School is not just a school, it's an extended family. The staff, administrators and teachers truly care for the families. Also, Sunshine School doesn't just work with children with special needs. They work to make sure all young kiddos have the opportunity to succeed.