2016 Ambassador
Tessa
Age: 5
Diagnosis: Autism
Tessa is a fun-loving five-year-old with an infectious smile and a genuine love of life. With two college age brothers that she adores, Tessa knows a little about being the youngest in her family and a lot about having the spotlight of attention! Give her the stage and she will have you belly-laughing on the floor. Her giggle, wit, and sense of humor keeps Tessa’s family entertained and on their toes.
When Tessa began showing developmental delays her parents immediately reacted and began seeking information and answers. After a visit with a local neurologist, Tessa was referred to Easterseals and in 2014 began the PLAY Project autism intervention program in Fresno.
In regular Tessa fashion, she won the heart of her Play Project consultant Drea almost immediately. The two have developed a relationship of silliness and comedic banter. When first meeting Tessa, Drea recognized Tessa’s desire for fun and laughs and has used that to help broaden her play skills. Tessa has gone from very narrow focused play to more creative and elaborate play involving more toys, games and themes -an area of great growth according to Tessa’s parents.
Upon starting the PLAY Project, Tessa’s verbal communication and social confidence seemed to be on-track, however her understanding of social cues were not. Since entering the PLAY Project program, Tessa has flourished in numerous ways. She has become much better at understanding the emotions of others as well as her own. Her acceptance of sharing and taking turns has changed the dynamics of the household greatly. Drea and Tessa’s parents agree that Tessa’s greatest achievements in the PLAY Project so far have been flexibility and spontaneity.
Tessa loves a good time and all things related to people and fun. She'd be happy to have anyone over for a playdate and enjoy a little game of Pop-the-Pig or make believe with her stuffed animals. If she's not in her playroom you can find her outside swimming or riding her scooter. And if you're really lucky you might get an invitation to share her favorite snack of crackers and brie.
