Day 5

May 25, 2016

Today was our last day at both Warren ECC and OTB. Because it was the last day of school for Warren ECC, many of the activities were more based on socializing for the kids instead of being based on a curriculum. I thought it was great how the kids would ask to be read to, and we also got a chance to play games and draw with them. I found that despite only spending two days with them, the kids were very responsive to communication with us. By the third day, they were freely giving hugs, tugging on our arms, and asking us if we were going to come back again. It was at this point I recognized the importance of consistent stimulation in terms of childhood development. Because we were so interactive with the kids, they wanted to see us more so that they can be as engaged on a daily basis

Over at OTB, the group was split into indirect and direct services. Parts of the group got split into gardening, storage room cleaning, tidying up, and group work. Although it was strange that not everyone got contact with the participants at OTB, it was apparent that the indirect service made a big impact on how the organization ran. The facilitators were so busy interacting with the special needs adults that there was little time to weed the garden, clean the patio, sanitize the bathroom, or vacuum the community room. Even so, the community partners were very appreciative of the service we were able to offer.
- Tina

I woke up at 6am this morning. Somebody ate all the honey nut Cheeriohs!! But the multi-grain wasn’t so bad. Oh and I finally finished my last bagel which is a serious blessing. That thing was not nearly as soft as it was when I bought it. We traveled to the Warren center for their last day. I didn’t get to drive the van which made I was quietly salty about but I know my place. I got to work in the self-contained class today… I have trouble with kids. But these kids were alright. Remember that dancing banana that sings peanut butter jelly from way back in 2008? These kids freaking love that video. They just absolutely freak out! One of the kids liked my hair band so I gave it to her and as far as I know she still has it on her wrist. Adorbs. We then traveled to OTB for our last day of service. We did indirect service today which meant weeding in the garden. Clara, Morgan, Tina and I had a solid convo during and really bonded or whatever. All in all pretty great day. It’s pretty late. I’m tired. I’m going to bed now.

-Cotter