Special Needs Program Cambodia

I travelled to Phnom Penh, Cambodia in May 2019 for four weeks. I volunteered on the special needs project and was placed in a primary school outside the city. I volunteered in the special needs classroom there, where there was about 15 children ages 5-21 with a variety of cognitive and/or physical disabilities. There are not many opportunities for children (or adults) with disabilities to receive an education, so this classroom was very unique in that the teachers did everything they could to support the children and give them a place to learn and grow. I was fortunate enough to provide my knowledge and skills as a student in OT school to the children and staff members so they had a better idea on what activities and strategies to use for the children. This experience was so eye opening and allowed me to take a step back from my busy life and appreciate all that I have back in my home country. I cannot wait to volunteer through IVHQ again in the future as this experience was so life changing and amazing.