Ranjana Srinivasan-Tuesday August 16th 2011

What a difference a day can make! I can honestly say that today, the camp has completely turned around from the chaos that was yesterday. The previous days craziness really gave us clarity for what we should be focusing on for today. We woke up focused and ready for camp. We restructured the routine so that the day would begin with some coloring and non-musical activities so we could bond and talk with the children. Following this we had the group come together and did a hello song as well as a few other popular tunes such as "If you are happy and you know it" and "Peanut Butter and Jelly." The beginning quiet time really allowed us to get to know the children on a deeper level.  For example I was able to connect with one boy in the group, and during the musical activities he was more comfortable participating with me and expressing himself through music around me. We then split up into our separate groups. The movement room was more structured than the previous day. Channing and I came up with a series of activities for each group based off of their needs and how we interacted with us on Monday. We knew what to generally expect from them so it was easier to make up new songs and games to use that would engage them in movement no matter what physical or cognitive level they were at. We used songs and chants such as " Monkeys Jumping On The Bed" and "The Wheels On The Bus." For some songs we added hand movements for them to imitate and we frequently asked for their input to fill in the blank for the songs. Overall today was a successful day! The children were actively participating because the games were based off of their individual and group needs. As a whole, all the groups were really in sync today and we walked away feeling like we are on the right track. Of course there were other issues, some major and some minor, but the kids were really enjoying their time at the camp. Afterwards we cleaned up and did an overview of what happened that day. We then ventured back to the beach with some snorkel gear! It is always nice to take a mental break just for a few hours to bond with the group and collect our thoughts. I was able to see many exotic fish while enjoying the warm water. Many new inside jokes were made! We soon came back to the house and Channing and I immediately began our session planning again. We have been best friends for awhile, but after this experience we have been able to recognize how well we work together therapeutically. It feels like we are always thinking the same thing and work well together on our feet. It is great to have a partner that you trust and has a similar creative mind. For example we were able to make up a song to use in session tomorrow in about five or ten minutes. I feel this is because we work really well together and I am grateful for this experience! Now off to get some sleep and prepare for day three!