I spent half of my time working on materials and the other half working with kids. I absolutely LOVED IT!!! Before working at the Turn Center, I was not sure if I wanted to work with kids. Don’t get me wrong…I love kids, but I was not confident enough to think I could do therapy with the little ones. I now know where to get materials and which ones would be appropriate for specific therapy sessions. This is going to help me tremendously as an assistant therapist and graduate school! I am excited to have all these books I have created and the books that have been donated to me.
My biggest challenge had to be working with twin boys who both have Autism. I was there when the therapists started to work with them and they would cry for the entire session, but now they work so hard in therapy and rarely throw any fits. It is absolutely beautiful to observe the huge milestones these kids are achieving. I have also loved working with a little boy who happens to be Deaf. Rebecca, speech therapist at the Turn Center, and I have been increasing his knowledge in American Sign Language. It is exciting to see this child sign something new every time I see him!
I am going to miss being a part of these sessions, but I know that there will be many more sessions to enjoy in the future. I was offered summer hours at the Turn Center and will only be working there for a few more weeks. Not only am I extremely saddened, but the therapists I have been working with are also sad to see me go. I learned so much and am a true example of the Turn Center’s motto. Turning lives one success at a time…Well they have turned my life and I will be forever grateful for this experience. The people I work with have the best hearts in the world and I hope to maintain connected with them. I will miss the many laughs, tears, and joy surrounded at the Turn Center. Thank you Ogallala Commons for giving me the best experience in my life! Thank you Turn Center for giving me a chance and helping me get closer to achieving my dream. With so much love and respect…Cristina Elizabeth Vargas
