Michelle Popek

NURS320
10/17/14
Reflection on Service Learning Experience
Upon being given this assignment I was a little irritated because it was at a time when
school is not in session which means I am being taken away from my normal family time.
However, the presentation given by the HUGS staff during our class really inspired me to be
more involved in the lives of these families that work so hard every day for their children. I
realized during the presentation and orientation that these families do not ever get a break from
their family responsibilities. Having a special needs child is a 24/7 duty. A fulfilling and
wonderful duty but none the less a job you do not get to take too many breaks from. I was
honored to be able to give these families just a bit of respite with the relief of knowing their
children will be taken care of and have fun.
My participation in the event when I arrived was to be a four year olds buddy. This was a
really good match for me. She was a little shy at first but seemed to open up towards the middle
of the night. She also had two siblings in attendance that we sought out several times.
In the development of this age of preschoolers this is when social skills develop. The text states
that preschoolers generally do not exhibit stranger anxiety and have less separation anxiety. Her
development all around seemed to be within normal limits; height, weight, motor skills,
language. Her play was also appropriate. We spent our time in several different activities
throughout the evening including the swings, sandbox, and coloring.
This activity definitely gave me a better understanding of providing family centered care.
The HUGS program specifically provides the community of families with any illness or disease a
variety of services including monthly and emergency respite, hospital outreach, airfare fund,

kokua kupoard, funeral fund, peer support groups and monthly family events. I am really excited
that this is part of our 320 curriculum. I was able to better understand the need for community
resources. I do hope that I will be able to continue my volunteer status for this awesome
organization.