Course Director & Special Needs Family Coordinator
My name is Karen Trip, I’m 44 years old, married, and a mother of five children. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Management and Economics, specialize as a parent instructor for children with special needs, and am trained as an ABA therapist. Currently, I manage courses at First-Step College and oversee the family programs for children with special needs.
Eighteen years ago, when my eldest son, Shai Silberbusch, was born, he participated in the TV program “Experts’ Gallery” by Rivka Michaeli, focused on infant development. I was captivated by the show—every day, I eagerly watched and practiced what I learned with my son.
That was my first introduction to First-Step, and my dream was to study there. It took many years to gather the courage, but eventually, I started. Since then, I have been an instructor and part of the First-Step team for seven years.
I have always felt connected to the world of infants. Since childhood, I knew I wanted to work in a field related to children. There’s something very special about being able to help families make a small change that ultimately leads to a significant transformation for both child and parents.
I love being part of the journey for parents and babies—being a listening ear and providing tools and information. After all, our children don’t come with instruction manuals, and I’m happy to help parents experience a smoother transition into parenthood. For me, this is truly a mission.
Working in this field requires a lot of patience, creativity, sensitivity, and a big heart. When you wake up excited to do what you love, it makes all the difference. As a course director, what I enjoy most is witnessing the growth my students undergo—the evolving mindset, the new perspectives, the ability to dive into details, be precise, and find their own path.
