‘Ohana Program Organizes ‘Go Baby Go’ Event to Support Local Children

HPU’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program to Empower Children with Disabilities through Innovative Events in October

Hawai’i Pacific University (HPU) is gearing up for an impactful October, as its Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program in Honolulu prepares to host a series of inspiring events designed to enhance the lives of keiki (children) with disabilities. At the heart of these activities is the “Go Baby Go” event, a significant initiative that not only provides modified ride-on cars to young children but also fosters inclusivity, socialization, and joy within the community.

Scheduled for Friday, October 4, 2024, from 12:30 to 3:00 PM at the HPU Graduate College of Health Sciences lab, the “Go Baby Go” event will unite local families with HPU students, particularly those studying occupational therapy, physical therapy, and engineering. This collaborative effort will enable students to customize up to five ride-on cars, specially designed to meet the unique mobility needs of each child. The event will not only spotlight the creativity and technical skills of the students but will also serve as a wonderful opportunity for children with disabilities to experience increased independence and the chance to engage with their peers.

“Go Baby Go is such a powerful way to mālama (to care for) our local keiki by giving them a sense of independence and joy,” said Dr. Tracey Recigno, Assistant Professor and Program Director of the Occupational Therapy Program at HPU. “This event isn’t just about mobility; it’s about bringing our community together to support one another. Our students feel honored to be part of this journey with the families we serve.”

The roots of the “Go Baby Go” initiative can be traced back to Professor Cole Galloway at the University of Delaware, who envisioned a program that could empower children with mobility disabilities to explore their surroundings effectively. The premise is simple yet profound: allowing children the freedom to move autonomously is crucial for their cognitive, social, and motor development. As a result, this initiative has transformed into a global phenomenon, with many communities participating to enhance the mobility options for children with disabilities.

As part of their commitment to practical learning, HPU students will partake in a variety of hands-on activities leading up to the main event. On Thursday, October 3, from 1:00 to 2:00 PM, student teams will adapt electronic toys to suit the needs of children with disabilities, furthering their understanding of assistive technology. That afternoon, from 2:45 to 5:00 PM, students will gain insights into adapted gaming technologies at HPU’s eSports Arena located at Aloha Tower Marketplace and will also visit the HPU Makerspace to explore the innovative world of 3D-printed assistive devices.

In addition to “Go Baby Go,” HPU’s OTD program is also collaborating with Shriners Children’s Hospital in Oahu to host Camp Ho‘omana on Wednesday, October 2, 2024. This groundbreaking event, which runs from 2:00 to 6:00 PM at HPU’s Graduate College of Health Sciences lab, is designed for children with congenital hand differences. Campers will participate in various games and activities, fostering a sense of community while providing a supportive and joyful environment.

HPU’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy program reflects the university’s dedication to serving the distinctive needs of its local communities. As the only occupational therapy doctoral program in Hawai’i, it is strategically located downtown, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge simulation labs and to collaborate with diverse health programs. This holistic educational approach ensures that students not only learn the theoretical aspects of occupational therapy but also get invaluable practical training, supported by a faculty of esteemed professionals respected both locally and internationally.

For media inquiries and any questions about the upcoming events or HPU’s OTD programs, Dr. Recigno invites interested parties to reach out via email at trecigno@hpu.edu. The events this October promise to showcase not only the commitment of HPU to community empowerment but also the transformative potential of occupational therapy in enhancing the lives of children with disabilities throughout Hawaii.

Keep an eye out for this exciting series of events—it’s all about making a positive impact and fostering a community where every child can thrive and enjoy the freedom that comes with mobility.