#MeetTheTeacherAtSEEC | Meet the educator who bridges science and practice at Special Em’s

Continuing our #MeetTheTeacherAtSEEC series, Special Em’s is proud to introduce Ms. Tan Nguyen, a MA & Ph.D. Candidate in Special Education – Academic Manager at Special Em’s Education Center (Special Em’s) and a Lecturer at the Faculty of Special Education, Ho Chi Minh City University of Education.

With more than a decade of experience in the field of Special Education, Ms. Tan has been one of the key experts laying the foundation for Special Em’s early intervention program. Beyond leading the professional team, she has worked closely with colleagues to develop evidence-based intervention programs that thoughtfully integrate academic research with practical experience gained from supporting children and their families.

As the Early Intervention Program Manager, Ms. Tan works closely with Special Em’s teachers and therapists throughout every stage of the intervention process. Through regular classroom observations and professional reviews, she collaborates with the team to monitor each child’s progress, evaluate intervention goals, and refine strategies whenever needed. This ongoing and consistent approach ensures that every intervention plan remains individualized and responsive to each child’s unique developmental needs.

For Ms. Tan, every child develops at their own pace. Rather than expecting children to fit a predetermined path, she believes in choosing the right intervention, at the right time, with the right level of support so that each child can reach their fullest potential. This belief is reflected in her professional philosophy of “Early – Appropriate – Sufficient” intervention, where every step of a child’s progress is nurtured through both scientific evidence and genuine understanding.

Alongside her work at Special Em’s, Ms. Tan Nguyen also serves as a Lecturer at the Faculty of Special Education, Ho Chi Minh City University of Education, where she continues to inspire and mentor future generations of special education professionals. Her dedication to education was recognized with the Outstanding Young Educator Award 2024, presented through the Nguoi Su Pham program organized by Ho Chi Minh City University of Education.

Committed to lifelong learning, Ms. Tan continuously updates her professional knowledge through internationally recognized training programs. She holds prestigious certifications, including IBCCES (USA) in Education and Care for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, along with advanced qualifications in Lego Therapy (The UK) and Diagnosis & Assessment of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, etc.
Beyond her professional expertise, what truly defines Ms. Tan’s work at Special Em’s is her philosophy of creating meaningful learning environments. She believes that a child’s development is shaped not only by high-quality intervention programs, but also by an environment that is both psychologically supportive and physically safe.

From fostering trusting relationships through warmth, patience, and respect for each child’s individuality, to designing structured learning spaces that are visually supportive, sensory-friendly, and developmentally appropriate, every aspect of the environment is thoughtfully created to help children feel secure, engaged, and ready to learn.

For Ms. Tan, special education extends far beyond teaching knowledge or developing skills. It is a journey of walking alongside each family, where science, perseverance, and compassion come together to create meaningful and lasting progress for every child.

At Special Em’s, Ms. Tan continues to work hand in hand with our professional team, bringing these values to life every day—ensuring that every child is respected, supported in an environment tailored to their needs, and empowered to grow in their own unique way.