External Internship
The Spring semester of my Senior year at IU Indianapolis, I had the opportunity to intern for K1ds Count Therapy in Brownsburg, IN. K1ds Count Therapy is a pediatric therapy facility that offers physical, occupational, speech, and mental health therapy services. I had the chance to design two projects with a fellow intern for the facility that included organizational plans and structured gym ideas. This experience was absolutely incredible, and I am so thankful for all of the knowledge, networking, and memories that I have gained throughout!
Organizational Cabinet and Closet Plans!
For the course curriculum, each student was required to design a project that went toward their internship hours that would benefit the facility that they were interning for. During my first couple weeks at K1ds Count Therapy, I realized that organization and structure would benefit all of the therapists in more ways than one. Because of this, my classmate and I designed cabinet and closet layouts that would ensure materials went back to the appropriate locations, therapists would be able to find needed session items easier, and there would be an overall increase in cleanliness in the facility. As you can see in the attached images, each closet and cabinet were clearly and boldly labeled with what materials you could find in that specific location. This project greatly improved organization in the clinic, and the therapists are much happier with their treatment rooms!
Closet Labeling
Cabinet Labeling
SPOT Structured Gym!
K1d’s Count Therapy has a program that is called SPOT, which is focused around kids that are getting ready to begin school and have been diagnosed with some form of autism. SPOT is a place where they can work on structure, school work, and what their daily routines will be like once they begin attending school. SPOT Structured Gym supplies the kiddos with an energy outlet while still reinforcing the structure that is needed! Instructors are able to record notes/observations each week in order to modify for the following week! Attached to the left are some examples of what these lesson plans may look like for instructors. I am so happy I had the opportunity to be a part of this program and benefit the kids that attend! :)
My Overall Experience
6-Word Reflection: Memorable, Educational, Beneficial, Fun, Tiring, Chaotic
While reflecting on my time at K1ds Count Therapy, I feel very thankful for the many weeks that I got to spend there! Whether it was tidying up, shadowing therapy sessions, or aiding in exercise plans, I had so much fun! I met many awesome physical, occupational, and speech therapists that shared a lot of knowledge and advice that I will carry with me all throughout my academics and future career. I also made connections and friendships with the amazing kids that attended therapy at this facility, and they truly made this internship what it was. I am going to miss them so much!