Names have been changed to protect the privacy and identity of the children and families featured in this story.
When Winnie first came to the Puyallup Early Learning Center, her mom was nervous.
Winnie struggled with circle time, moved quickly between activities, and sometimes had a hard time settling into the classroom routine. Instead of focusing on the behavior itself, her teachers began with a different question: What does Winnie need to be successful?
Meeting Winnie Where She Is
The Puyallup ELC team worked with Winnie slowly and consistently, finding ways for her to participate that felt comfortable and achievable.
Eventually, circle time began to look different. Winnie started sitting with the group, singing songs, and participating alongside her friends. On days when joining the circle feels like too much, she has a special place where she can sit nearby and remain part of the group.
Staff have seen similar progress with potty training. What once felt overwhelming has gradually become another area where Winnie is building confidence.
The milestones might seem small from the outside, but for Winnie and the people who know her, each one represents meaningful growth.
Building Trust With the Whole Family
That support has also changed the experience for Winnie's mom.
Staff make a point of sharing the good moments, whether Winnie has had a successful transition, participated in circle time, or reached a new milestone. Her mom no longer has to spend the day wondering whether a difficult moment will mean an early pickup. She knows the team will work through those moments with Winnie.
For the Puyallup ELC team, Winnie's story is a reminder that behavior is often a form of communication. Taking time to listen, build relationships, and understand what a child needs can help create a place where they feel safe enough to grow.
Through hundreds of small moments, Winnie and her family have found something important at the Y: people who know her, care about her, and are ready to celebrate each step forward.