The UP Psychology Society (UP PsychSoc) has long been a beacon of hope and support for children with special educational needs. Their project, InDAK, has become a flagship initiative, emphasizing the importance of accessible and relevant special education and mental health wellness services. With their partnership dating back to 2008, UP PsychSoc has been actively involved with Batino Elementary School, a center dedicated to children with special educational needs. This article delves into the motivations, challenges, and successes of the InDAK project, based on an interview with Joaquin Guevara, a dedicated member of UP PsychSoc.
The Genesis of InDAK
UP PsychSoc’s partnership with Batino Elementary School began in 2008, with a shared goal of advancing psychology through self-expression and vocation. Initially, the organization focused on sensory activities such as texture and scent-based sessions to assist students with visual impairments and learning disabilities.
Over time, the objectives evolved to include supplementary activities that complement classroom learnings, helping children to socialize and energize themselves such as arts, puppeteering, painting, singing, and theater, alongside sports and dancing to hone fine motor skills and spatial awareness.
Overcoming Challenges
Transitioning to a predominantly face-to-face setup in the academic year 2023-2024 posed several challenges. The InDAK team dedicated the initial months to establishing logistical systems and partnership communications. With the groundwork laid by the previous year’s committee and the support from the UP NSTP-NSRC Office, the organization navigated budget constraints and logistical hurdles successfully. Despite scheduling conflicts due to academic calendar mismatches, transport strikes, and national holidays, the team focused on enhancing session quality through internal production works, increasing volunteer turnout, and setting engaging activities.
Participation and Engagement
The active participation of students and their families has been a cornerstone of InDAK’s success. Students eagerly engaged in activities, particularly those related to art and dancing. Guardians played a crucial role in behavioral management and interaction, working closely with volunteers to ensure children’s engagement. This collaboration fostered bonding between parents and children, enhancing the overall impact of the sessions.
Practical and Recreational Activities
In the current academic year, InDAK activities included beaded bracelet making and mural creation. The “Just Keep Swimming: Children’s Fair” featured a music booth, reading nook, painting station, photo booth, and sports zone, offering sensory activities to captivate the children’s interests.
Key Partnerships
Key partnerships have been instrumental to InDAK’s success. Batino Elementary School SPED Center and the UP NSTP-NSRC Office have been crucial allies, providing resources and support. Additionally, external partners like Handcraftedbyshe supplied materials for various activities, ensuring ample resources for the children.
Lessons Learned and Future Plans
Tailoring activities to the needs and interests of participants has been a vital lesson for UP PsychSoc. Needs assessments guide program creation, ensuring activities are engaging and relevant. Budget considerations also play a significant role, with the team finding resourceful ways to engage participants within budget constraints. The organization plans to sustain InDAK’s benefits through continuous innovation, feedback integration, and conducting needs assessments to stay updated with trends in special education.
Expanding Horizons
UP PsychSoc is considering expanding InDAK to other communities and beneficiaries. Potential partnerships with nearby SPED centers like Quirino High School are being reviewed to ensure sustainability and effective resource allocation.
The Rewarding Journey
For Joaquin Guevara, the most rewarding aspect of InDAK has been seeing the children’s joy and enthusiasm. The connection and trust built with the children are invaluable. A particularly impactful moment for him was improvising a dance session during the Children’s Fair, which highlighted the spontaneous joy and connection fostered through the project.
InDAK has not only enriched the lives of the children and their families but has also ignited the passions of our UPD students as NSRC Reservists and as UP PsychSoc members, providing growth opportunities for both the community and the volunteers. As UP PsychSoc continues to innovate and expand, the smiles and laughter of the children will remain their greatest reward and motivation.
(Photos from UP Psychology Society)
Written by:
Ameda M. Tomie
