Zaineb “Zee” is an autism and developmental consultant, educator, and DIRFloortime® Expert based in Maple Ridge. She is the founder of Clever Clogs Inclusive Academy, where she supports autistic and neurodivergent children, families, educators, and organizations through neurodiversity-affirming and relationship-based approaches.
As both a professional and a parent of two autistic children, Lulu and Danny, Zaineb brings lived experience, empathy, and deep understanding into her work. Her journey as a mother transformed the way she views child development, emotional connection, and inclusion, leading her to advocate for approaches that honour children’s individuality, autonomy, and emotional wellbeing.
Zaineb specializes in DIRFloortime®, emotional development, executive functioning, inclusive education, and parent and professional coaching. She is passionate about helping families and professionals move away from compliance-based practices and toward meaningful connection, co-regulation, and authentic relationships.
Known for her warm and compassionate approach, Zaineb combines professional expertise with real-life experience to create supportive spaces where children and families feel understood and valued. She regularly provides workshops, consultations, and presentations locally and internationally, with a focus on culturally responsive and strengths-based support.
Outside of her professional work, Zaineb enjoys biking, cooking, and walking in nature with her children and husband, Ali. She shares her home with two cats, Otis and Chester, who are very much part of the family’s everyday adventures.
• Master of education, USA.
• Bachelor of Arts, Political Science Major, Simon Fraser University, Canada.
• BC Independent School Teaching Certificate (SR – Humanities), Canada.
• DIRFloortime® Expert and Training Leader, ICDL, USA. DIR® Directory
• Motivational Interviewing, Change Talk BC, Canada.
• Mental Health First Aid, Mental Health Commission of Canada, Canada.
• Autism & Neurodiversity Support, Therapists Neurodiversity Collective, USA.
• Kids Yoga Instructor Training, Kidding Around Yoga, Canada.
• PDA: Neurodiversity-Affirming, Trauma Informed Practice & Supports, Therapists Neurodiversity Collective, USA.
