At STEP, Inc., we are proud to witness the incredible journeys of children and their families as they navigate the early years of development. One such inspiring story is that of Zyaire Reynolds, a remarkable young boy who is flourishing through our Early Head Start and Head Start programs. We recently had the privilege of speaking with his mother, Ebony Hancock, about their experiences and the profound impact these programs have had on Zyaire’s growth and development.
When Zyaire was diagnosed with autism, Ebony faced several challenges. “Being more patient as a mother, keeping him on a routine, and finding routines that fit us while treating him the same as other kids was tough,” Ebony recalls. “I didn’t want him to feel singled out.” These initial hurdles were daunting, but Ebony’s determination to support her son led her to seek out the best resources available.
Ebony discovered our Early Head Start and Head Start programs through Early Intervention services, which Zyaire was already receiving, including physical therapy. Additionally, Ebony’s older son had also attended STEP, which gave her confidence in the program’s ability to support her family. “It felt like a natural choice for us,” she says.
Since starting our programs in 2022 at the age of two, Zyaire has made significant strides. “He does really well with other children now,” Ebony notes with pride. “One of the biggest milestones was when he started drinking out of a regular cup. It’s a simple thing, but it meant a lot.” These achievements are a testament to the supportive and nurturing environment at STEP.
The comprehensive support Zyaire receives has been instrumental in his progress. “Everyone works very hard to keep us in the loop, from physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) to speech therapy (ST) and Piedmont services, both before and after school,” Ebony explains. This collaborative approach ensures that Zyaire’s needs are met consistently, fostering his development in all areas.
To other parents of children with autism, Ebony offers heartfelt advice: “This program definitely helps with socialization and interacting with other kids.” The sense of community and belonging that STEP provides has been invaluable to Zyaire and his family.
One of the most significant areas of growth for Zyaire has been his social skills. “When he first started, he only wanted to be with one student, but as time went on, he made more friends,” Ebony shares. This expansion of his social circle has been crucial in helping Zyaire feel more comfortable and confident around his peers.
Ebony has also noticed a remarkable change in Zyaire’s independence. “He definitely tries to be more independent now,” she says. This growing sense of self-reliance is a critical step in his development, preparing him for future challenges.
As Zyaire continues to grow and learn, Ebony is optimistic about his future. “These experiences will help him be more confident and able to be himself,” she believes. The foundation laid by the Early Head Start and Head Start programs will undoubtedly shape Zyaire’s path, equipping him with the skills and confidence to thrive.
At STEP, Inc., stories like Zyaire’s reaffirm our commitment to providing comprehensive, compassionate support to children and their families. We are honored to be a part of Zyaire’s journey and look forward to witnessing his continued success.