SRU students help the community relax through crafts
Community members and occupational therapy students from Slippery Rock University got hands-on experience through a program held at Butler SUCCEED Friday afternoon.
Through crafting, doctoral students of SRU’s program got to use their knowledge to help people relax and practice fine-motor skills.
Erin Naggy, assistant professor of SRU’s occupational therapy program, said the event was held two previous times for people in recovery, and is meant to benefit the students and participants equally.
“There’s a lot of scientific evidence behind using crafts for therapy. It works physically through fine motor skills, and as a relaxation tactic,” she said.
Students were called upon to research an activity, write out detailed instructions and find materials. Stations were positioned around the SUCCEED space on Main Street for community members to make stress balls, rice socks, key chains and cookies shaped like bunnies, eggs and butterflies.
Sara Chiprean, a doctoral student, said she chose her activity for the creative aspect.
“With treat decorating, they’re using fine motor skills, and it’s a fun way for them to incorporate creativity,” she said.
“What it’s about is making people’s lives just a little bit better. People think you have to do something big,” Naggy said.
Madz Morrin came into the SUCCEED building for the activities because they sounded like fun.
“It’s been very good, they’re very positive people” she said of the students.
Shawna Conley said she was intrigued by the crafts offered at the event as she strung beads for a key chain.
“I could use some occupational therapy,” she said, gesturing to a brace on her wrist. “Creativity is it’s own therapy. Anything you can do with your hands.”
Chris Majersky stopped in because she formerly worked with special needs children. She questioned the students on their former experience and goals.
“I worked with a lot of OTs,” she said. “I think they’re dong very good. I’ve talked with all the people at different tables.”
Chiprean said running the program was nerve-wracking at first, but conversing with community members quelled her fears.
“I love the interaction, it’s cool to see how many people (the activities) can help,” she said. “It’s fun, even when a patient isn’t with you, to see how the patient experiences other stations.”
She said her classwork aided her during the experience.
“(In class), we talk about populations and how to get them to open up and be comfortable. Interacting with people, I found myself having more confidence.”
“I’m so proud of them. It’s so cool to see them connect with people right away. In health care, that’s an essential skill,” Naggy said. “(The students) were very hesitant that they wouldn’t do a good job. They’ve expressed now that they’re better at it than they thought.”
Naggy added that the skills students learn in this program will carry over to occupational therapy for every age group: from pediatrics to geriatrics.
“They learned that making the connection is the most important part. The rest comes later,” she said.
