Lavern Merriman
Irvington,NJ
Summary
Compassionate childcare professional with 10 years of experience supporting children from infancy to adolescence, including those with autism and developmental delays. Expertise in providing ABA-based support in both school and home settings, fostering academic, social, and emotional growth. Demonstrates adaptability to diverse environments while maintaining a calm demeanor.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Patient Monitor
RWJ University Hospital
Somerset, NJ
03.2022 - 11.2025
- Collaborated in emergency and psychiatric units to support high-risk populations' care and treatment
- Monitored psychiatric and medical patients to maintain safety and provide timely interventions
- Resigned due to changes in work schedule affecting family caregiving
Paraprofessional (Grade 2)
North Star Academy ABA
Newark, NJ
12.2020 - 02.2022
- Facilitated student focus, regulation, and engagement in classwork using ABA strategies
- Provided one-on-one academic and behavioral support to a student with special needs during virtual and in-person learning
- Assisted two students simultaneously, reinforcing learning objectives under lead teacher guidance
Paraprofessional (Pre-K to Grade 1)
Bloomfield Public Schools
Bloomfield, NJ
04.2019 - 06.2020
- De-escalated behaviors and provided tailored one-on-one instruction, enhancing individual student engagement and understanding
- Supported students with special needs in daily academic tasks.
- Supported curriculum delivery, behavior management, and emotional support in ABA-integrated classroom, fostering a positive learning environment
- Assisted teachers in implementing lesson plans and classroom activities.
- Collaborated with educators to adapt instructional materials for diverse learners.
Behavioral Therapist (Age 14)
Build n Care (Private Home Placement)
Lakewood, NJ
09.2019 - 03.2020
- Assessed client behavior and developed tailored treatment plans.
- Implemented therapeutic techniques to improve social skills and emotional regulation.
- Facilitated daily routines, emotional regulation, and behavior goals for teenage client with autism to enhance overall well-being
- Collaborated with behaviorist to assist with homework, functional life skills, and goal tracking, promoting client progress
- Collaborated with families to support behavioral goals and strategies.
Paraprofessional (Ages 5–11)
Delta Agency
Woodbridge, NJ
07.2018 - 04.2019
- Created reinforcement systems that increased student participation and contributed to positive academic outcomes
- Supported students in various placements with tailored academic and behavioral interventions to enhance learning engagement
- Collaborated with students to enhance learning and provide individualized assistance.
- Supported classroom activities and assisted teachers with lesson implementation.
- Maintained student records, ensuring accurate documentation of progress and behavior.
Nanny (Ages 3 months to Middle School)
Private Family
Irvington, NJ
07.2011 - 06.2017
- Delivered nurturing care for multiple children, ensuring their physical, emotional, and educational needs were met
- Coordinated daily routines, effectively multitasking to create a calm, structured home environment
- Supervised play activities, fostering positive peer interactions and enhancing social skills
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Natural Science and Mathematics, Psychology
Feliciana University
Lodi, NJ01-2017
Associate’s Degree -
Feliciana University
Lodi, NJ01-2015
Skills
- Patient care
- Patient observation
- Crisis intervention
- Behavioral assessment
- Medication administration
- Electronic health records management
- Safety compliance
Timeline
Patient Monitor
RWJ University Hospital
03.2022 - 11.2025
Paraprofessional (Grade 2)
North Star Academy ABA
12.2020 - 02.2022
Behavioral Therapist (Age 14)
Build n Care (Private Home Placement)
09.2019 - 03.2020
Paraprofessional (Pre-K to Grade 1)
Bloomfield Public Schools
04.2019 - 06.2020
Paraprofessional (Ages 5–11)
Delta Agency
07.2018 - 04.2019
Nanny (Ages 3 months to Middle School)
Private Family
07.2011 - 06.2017
Bachelor of Arts - Natural Science and Mathematics, Psychology
Feliciana University
Associate’s Degree -
Feliciana University