Shortly after Kyla celebrated her 8th birthday, her family began their journey with Envision’s CITE Services. At that time, daily life brought significant challenges. Kyla struggled with motivation around personal care, had difficulty making safe choices, and her family carried constant concern for her safety in the community.
But what followed is a powerful story of growth, discovery, and success.
With patience and insight, Morgan Mayhan, the family’s CITE Skill Assessment Specialist, recognized that many of Kyla’s challenges stemmed from an unmet sensory need. Kyla was seeking input in ways that weren’t always safe—but with the right support, that need could become a pathway for progress. Morgan introduced Kyla to a variety of engaging, tactile sensory experiences during home visits, helping her discover safe and appropriate ways to meet her body’s needs. Over time, Kyla began to understand her own sensory preferences and learned how to make choices that supported her well-being.
As Kyla gained these new tools, her confidence began to grow.
At the same time, she was building essential life skills. Step by step, Kyla learned to take ownership of her personal care routines. Today, as her family reaches the end of their service period, Kyla is proudly initiating and completing these tasks independently—a milestone that once felt out of reach.
Her growth didn’t stop there. Kyla has become an active and helpful member of her household. She cleans up after herself, contributes to daily chores, and has even mastered loading and unloading the dishwasher. Each accomplishment reflects not just new skills, but a growing sense of responsibility and independence.
Equally inspiring is Kyla’s progress in community safety. She has learned how to identify trusted adults and understands what to do if she ever feels unsafe or separated from her family. Recently, at her church, Kyla confidently approached a group of police officers, greeted them, identified them as community helpers, and thanked them for the work they do. It was a moment that beautifully captured just how far she has come.
Kyla’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when children are supported with understanding, creativity, and encouragement. Her story reminds us that every small step forward can lead to meaningful, lasting change—and a brighter, more independent future.
Support More Success Stories Like Kyla’s
Kyla’s journey is a powerful example of how the right support, encouragement, and individualized strategies can help children build confidence, independence, and lifelong skills. Through Envision’s CITE Services, families receive the tools and guidance needed to help their children thrive at home, in school, and in the community.
👉 Visit www.envisionohio.org to learn more about CITE Services, explore our programs, volunteer, or support our mission. Together, we can help more children like Kyla reach their full potential and create brighter futures.
