[nabs-l] working with kids

[Elizabeth]

Hi Ashley,
 
I am not sure what age range you are interested in working with, but perhaps you might want to look into helping out at one of the summer youth programs at one of the training centers. I think this could help you gain some experience as well as some confidence in trying to obtain a job amongst the sighted population. I do not know if you have attended any of the training centers yourself, but if you have not, then perhaps now might be a good time to look into it as you search for job possibilities. However, I also know that training centers are not necessarily for everyone, so if you choose not to go this route, then I think no less of you. Whatever you choose to do, I wish you the best of luck.
 
Elizabeth
 
> -----Original Message----- 
> From: bookwormahb at earthlink.net
> Sent: Friday, March 04, 2011 7:37 PM
> To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list
> Subject: [nabs-l] working with kids
> 
> Hi all,
> 
> So I don’t have a job and I have wanted to help children, whether in reading 
> or just being there to help out and manage them.
> I am considering applying for a counseling position at local day camps.
> I am doubtful though about getting hired; I don’t have experience except for 
> a little tutoring I did a few years ago.
> Yet the only way to get experience is for someone to give you a chance.
> What was your experience like if you did this?
> 
> My rehab counselor discouraged me from pursuing teaching or working with 
> kids because I cannot see what they’re doing and safety issues.
> Yet I don’t want to believe those low expectations.
> 
> There are many summer camps locally in the area at community centers and
> recreation facilities.
> How have you managed the kids? How do you know where they are, that they are
> not getting hurt and doing what they are supposed to?
> The camps involve structured activities inside which is not as challenging
> to handle. I can walk around and observe the kids. Stuff like drama,
> music, and arts and crafts are some activities. However, others involve
> outdoor sport activities and I do not know how I'd manage that.
> 
> How did you convince them to let you help out?
> 
> 
> Thanks.
> Ashley
> _______________________________________________