Meet Maya

💛 A Little About Me

Hi, I'm Maya! I'm 12. I'm creative and observant, and I like to think things through. I love planning activities, remembering birthdays and figuring out what people might need before they ask. When I'm comfortable, I can be pretty funny — and even adventurous.

I live with my mom and my younger brother. My parents separated two years ago, and I spend time in both of their homes. I love them both. At my mom's, the routines are pretty consistent. At my dad's, things are more flexible, and plans sometimes change at the last minute. Neither home is better. Going back and forth between different expectations can just be tiring.

Some weekends I packed for an activity, and then it got canceled or changed. I was disappointed, but I didn't want to complain, because I knew the grown-ups were trying. That's when I started using calendars, lists and practicing things in my head. When I'm prepared, I feel ready.

⚡ Something That Happened

My partner and I were assigned a class presentation. I practiced with my partner. I memorized my part. I even planned the outfit I was going to wear.

On presentation day, I was excited and nervous. I had a plan, and I was ready for it.

🏫 In Our Classroom

Then my teacher said, "Change of plans! Instead of presenting with your partners, everyone will present individually."

Some kids shrugged. Some even cheered. I froze. I thought, "I did everything I was supposed to do. Why did everything have to change?"

Before I could stop myself, I said it out loud: "That's not fair!" What I really meant was more like, "I need a minute. I don't know how to do this yet."

🌱 What I'm Learning

I'm learning to ask questions when something changes, so I know exactly what's different — and what's still the same. I'm practicing asking for a moment before I react. Then I make a new plan.

Plans can change. I can change my plan, too.