Physical therapist assistant students from Pennsylvania College of Technology recently hosted an engaging and active morning for 70 elementary school children at the college’s Field House.
As part of a service-learning project, the students invited special education classes from Jersey Shore Area, Loyalsock Township, South Williamsport Area, and Williamsport Area school districts to participate in “Wildcat Kids in Motion.” The event, which featured a jungle theme, included a mix of sports, dance, crafts, and games.
Ashley N. Rich, a student from Mill Hall, explained the purpose of the event: “As physical therapist assistants, we work with children to help strengthen muscles and increase their physical activity. The goal was to offer the kids activities that focused on both fine and gross motor skills, as well as aerobic exercises.”
Activities at the event included play dough for fine-motor skills, coloring, and games like Uno and Jenga. Children worked on balance and coordination through archery, bowling, and ring toss. A dance station, which was especially popular, promoted aerobic endurance. The students made sure each activity was tailored to meet the individual needs of each child.
“The experience was rewarding because we helped the children do things they might have thought they couldn’t do,” said Sierra E. Biza, a student from Wyalusing.
The 12 student organizers, all of whom plan to graduate in August 2025, began planning the event in Spring 2024. They spent months coordinating with school districts and various campus offices to make it happen.
Each student designed a station based on the jungle theme, targeting a specific skill such as balance or coordination.
Carla Mertz, a student from Pennsburg, shared, “It was a great opportunity to see where my career is headed. Watching the kids work on skills that I’d use with them in a clinical setting was truly fulfilling.”
Victoria Hurwitz, director of the college’s physical therapist assistant program, noted that feedback from the children and their aides was overwhelmingly positive. “The aides were thankful for the event and praised the students for making sure every participant felt included and valued. They also appreciated that the event was so much fun!”
Wendy A. Miller, assistant dean of health sciences, said, “Our students were clearly excited about the event and working with the children. It was great to see them apply everything they’ve learned and make a real difference.”
The event was recently recognized with the 2024-25 Penn College Student Leadership and Involvement Award for Outstanding Community Service Project.
“‘Wildcat Kids in Motion’ demonstrates the power of physical therapy in promoting wellness and movement,” Hurwitz said. “This group of students set an excellent example of how a service project can leave a lasting impact. I’m sure both the students and the children will remember this day for a long time.”
