I worked as a
camp counselor for my local equestrian center, called the Columbia Horse Center in Laurel, Maryland. Every summer and winter break the center was used
as a day camp for children ages six to fourteen who had an interest in
horseback riding. During one of the two week summer sessions, I encountered a
girl named Ellie who had autism. Since I had never worked one-on-one with a
child with autism, I was a little hesitant due to the fear of not being able to
connect with Ellie, like I did with the other children at camp. I tried to
suppress my fear of failure, by going about my normal routines. I showed Ellie
the stalls and let her feed the horses. She always wanted to help with things
around the barn, so while the other counselors looked after the rest of the children
in camp, I let Ellie help with some of my chores and duties. I usually called
her my little helper, and her response was always a big, cheeky grin and a loud
laugh.
Ellie taught me
life skills that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. She taught me
how to problem solve, how to figure out different ways to approach a difficult
situation, and how to make the most out of what I have. Working with children
who have autism (or any child with any disability) can have a great impact on
one’s life, as it did mine. Not only will it improve their lives and show them
that they are loved, cared for, and thought of, but it will also improve your
life, by being open minded and accepting things that seem different or
abnormal. One should always find a little time to spend at least one day with
someone with a disability. 
You did a great job of illustrating and presenting your belief through the story that you told. I liked how you talked about the fact that you not only taught Ellie, but how she was able to teach you at the same time.
ReplyDeleteIt is a very touchy story. I like how you use this story to teach readers a lesson. Once you suppress your fear of failure anything is possible. Also, I like how you use Ellie in your story to tell what you believe in and what life lesson you've learned. Good Job!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed your story and how you were able to come up with a creative solution. I would avoid generalizations and try to stick to the moment though.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed your story & how you approached it! Society often tends to think that the disabled don't have much to offer but I liked how you proved that to be wrong. My little cousin has autism so I was able to relate to it!
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