As an intern, I’ve been given the opportunity to teach lessons and the instructor has always been present while doing so. On July 15, 2010, however, I was to teach and instruct the class without the formal instructor. I became the instructor for the morning with my own volunteer. Anxious and nervous, I thoroughly planned the day. After all, the day turned out fine. The girls paid attention and completed tasks. I believe there are a few factors which contributed to this successful independent teaching experience.
First of all, I’ve been able to observe the teaching qualities of the instructor I work alongside. As a result, I’m familiar with teaching and know what’s tolerated and allowed. Another important factor is that I’m at Girls Inc. almost all week. The girls see me consistently and I believe that has made a huge impact in them respecting and taking me seriously. I recommend all the interns and volunteers of Girls Inc. to spend more time at the facility because our presence is valued and it benefits the girls and us when we can put a name and personality to a face. The girls know I have a good relationship with their instructor and that disrespecting me would mean disrespecting her.
Another factor is that I had a lot of support from my co-workers, other volunteers and interns. There were a few situations when I didn’t know exactly what to do or how to answer certain questions, but those around me, helped me out. I really did not expect this, but it was a pleasant surprise. There was great communication between the employees, volunteers and myself. Most importantly, I felt I had a great support team. Having a great support team is a factor I want to be part of my future and professional life. I first experienced it here, at Girls Inc.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Thursday, July 8, 2010
On July 7, 2010, the first and second graders were excited to go hiking. They enthusiastically showed me their individual and unique hats and sweaters. Unfortunately, it was raining heavily and would not stop, so Girls Inc. was forced to postpone the hiking field trip. As it turns out, the day was surprisingly fun and I got the chance to see abilities and preferences of the girls.
For the first half of the morning, the girls did physical activity games in the gym. They played about five different games, and I noticed that after each type of game, the girls would take initiative and start their own games. Some girls formed a group and did the exact game that was previously played and others wondered around the gym, spun in circles, or hopped around. These girls are full of energy and it was interesting to see their unique expressions. Some are shy, some like to be in a group, some like to be alone, some are quiet and some are loud, but they all make the best of what’s around them. For example, since we were in an open gym without props, the girls entertained themselves and used their imaginations.
During the second half of the morning, we went into the multipurpose room where the girls were given an option of dancing or playing board games. It was eventually divided into two groups and the girls danced so cute! I haven’t been this amused in a long time. They each had their own styles, filled with attitude and rhythm, but most importantly, they appeared to be having a great time. I saw big smiles and no conflicts.
This whole day was definitely a Kodak moment. It was filled with physical activity, creative expression, and many smiles. Today I got to experience a small fraction of how unique and wonderful each of these young girls really are.
For the first half of the morning, the girls did physical activity games in the gym. They played about five different games, and I noticed that after each type of game, the girls would take initiative and start their own games. Some girls formed a group and did the exact game that was previously played and others wondered around the gym, spun in circles, or hopped around. These girls are full of energy and it was interesting to see their unique expressions. Some are shy, some like to be in a group, some like to be alone, some are quiet and some are loud, but they all make the best of what’s around them. For example, since we were in an open gym without props, the girls entertained themselves and used their imaginations.
During the second half of the morning, we went into the multipurpose room where the girls were given an option of dancing or playing board games. It was eventually divided into two groups and the girls danced so cute! I haven’t been this amused in a long time. They each had their own styles, filled with attitude and rhythm, but most importantly, they appeared to be having a great time. I saw big smiles and no conflicts.
This whole day was definitely a Kodak moment. It was filled with physical activity, creative expression, and many smiles. Today I got to experience a small fraction of how unique and wonderful each of these young girls really are.
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