Hello! My name is Jenn and I’m a second year Occupational Therapy student at the University of Toronto, completing my final fieldwork placement at Larchwood Nature OT camp. When it was time to rank our preferences for our final OT placement, Larchwood Nature OT camp was my top choice. Reading the placement description, I was highly intrigued and knew it would be a perfect fit. I am grateful for being granted this placement! Larchwood nature OT combines my lifelong passions; working with children, being in nature, mindfulness and inclusion. This camp provides the opportunity for all children to feel included in a camp setting, to create meaningful relationships, work on fine, gross motor and social skills, emotional regulation and sensory challenges. The kids participate in therapeutic nature based activities including yoga, arts and crafts, water play and emotional regulation.
So why did I select this placement!? I’d like to share a bit about myself!
I grew up and lived in the city, but have always loved and found peace in nature. My “happy place” is in the lake or by a waterfall!
Since the age of 8, overnight summer camp up north by the lake was my home away from home. I attended camp for 13 summers, as both a camper and staff eventually working as a waterski instructor. The camp I attended had a unit for children with disabilities which allowed me to create bonds and relationship with kids of all abilities from a young age. I learnt the ability of nature and the camp setting to bring kids together to foster inclusion and understanding of diversity.
I also have a passion for children. Growing up as the youngest in my family, I am fortunate to have lots of younger nieces, nephews and cousins. Watching them grow up and supporting their development has been a true highlight in my life. These aspects combined with my knowledge of OT at UofT so far, allowed me to feel like a great match for the Larchwood Farm OT camp! I am so excited to continue to learn about the benefits of nature in OT practice and how to best support all kiddos throughout my work here at the Larchwood Nature OT camp!