This year, in addition to our usual Washington Center Challenge Day activities, our Introduction to Educational Studies class wanted to provide some additional experiences for the athletes, their parents, and the teachers at Washington Center. Upon entering the Davis Field House, athletes were able to get their pictures taken at our photo booth. In addition, two designated changing rooms were added for students who needed it. Outside, parents and teachers were offered delicious brownies as well as books and other resources they might find helpful.
However, a particularly special treat for the student-athletes was the addition of a calm down space for them to use if they just need a break. Soothing music, dimmed lights, and sensory activities provided a relaxing space for students who needed it. We received lots of positive feedback from both Washington Center parents and teachers. In fact, one mother wrote us to share what a blessing it was for her family:
My son, Brian, attends Washington Center and we came to the Challenge Day at Bob Jones this year. Both of my children, Brian and Elizabeth, had such a great time doing all the activities and they really loved the calm down room too. The calm down room might have been their favorite place of all. Our BJU students, Sophie, Devin and Isabela were so sweet and helpful and they really cared about Brian.
Thank you for planning this wonderful event for our kids. We look forward to it every year. I’m grateful that there are people who care about children like Brian. Kids like him aren’t able to give back to you emotionally and it takes a lot of effort to reach out to them. Most people either ignore Brian or try to avoid being around him. It is rare and special when someone goes out of their way to acknowledge him.
Thank you for being that kind of person and thanks for being a blessing.
“And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”- Matthew 25:40
