Family @ Basic Knowledge Training Group

moving house

2010-03-10T17:34:00.000+08:00

hi everyone

we moved house (online, not physically)
to

http://bktgminds.wordpress.com

see you guys there!

Sharing Day

2009-07-15T00:09:00.003+08:00

Did anyone attend the sharing day? Anything you would like to share?

I would love to see more senior volunteers being around to share... i thought that's the purpose? 1-2 newer volunteers commenting maybe next year won't be turning up.... sigh!

Open House - Thanks for coming

2009-05-24T00:47:00.002+08:00

To the visitors who came for our Open House ..

Thanks for taking time off to visit us. We hope you have a better idea of our trainees and activities. For those who have put down your contacts, we'll be getting in touch shortly to follow up on how you would like to volunteer with us. We would also be seeking your feedback on what can be improved.

Pls feel free to come down for our regular class on 30 May, 3-5.30pm. Kindly drop us an email at bktg1983@icqmail.com if you are coming.

We have opened our "house" and hearts, hope you will too =)

- Jianyun

Punishment - Closure

2009-05-19T22:45:00.002+08:00

Thanks to those who have given views.

The intent for me showing the transcript of the sms was more to share on some thoughts that struck me... just for your info, when I post these onto the blog, I were still smsing with the other party... I shall remain anonymous over this and will not add on to what was discussed over the sms. A couple of you already know who we are.

It has been donkey years since I completed primary education, so I am quite shocking to hear that punishment such as asking student to face the wall is no longer allow and consider degrading! I remembered when I was a child, teacher could throw chalk, book at us if we misbehave. Made us stand on chair, stand outside the classroom as other forms of punishment... I wonder what types of punishment are considered appropriate and effective nowadays.

Anyway, I just was want to say, as volunteers we will need to stay relevant to concurrent context in what we are doing - be it in the objectives we set for our trainees, the activities we are engaging them in or even when we need to make some enforcement to correct their behaviour. Bro, thanks for clarifying on the current situation in mainstream school!

Secondary, as volunteers, we just need to be vigilant in whatever we are doing. Even though our intent might be good, if we are not careful in our execution, we might be misinterpreted.

That's all...

PS: Btw, Weizhi was never punished when he was with us.... because he never misbehave.... He has autism.

Punishment

2009-05-17T23:09:00.002+08:00

I received an sms today

"Hi. Just curious, does bktg carry out any form of punishment on trainees who exhibit inappropriate behaviours or simply misbehave like in the case of weizhi (the one who likes to run around?)

My reply
"Punishment if scolding doesn't work will be in e form of slapping the hands to indicate disapproval of actions"

I got the follow response
"What about sending a trainee to face the wall (i mean literally) because she exhibits the habit of sniffing other people's hands. Mind u, she's a young adult and of "fairly high functionality". Is such form of punishment app?

My reply
"That's one possibility, wat i had mentioned in my previous sms is usually wat we do. In general, they are special ppl, so various forms of punishment done in mainstream school could be use appropriately - if trainees are educated these are consequences of misbehaviour"

I got the response
"How can such a degrading form of punishment be acceptable especially when the recipient is an adult albeit with id and the punishment is carried out by volunteers in a myg setting. How can this be acceptable?

I responded
"I am trying to generalise the possible punishment. Main thing is they understand wat is it for... as u seen when u're with us, e most we do is scolding, slapping hands"

His reply
"I understand bktg form of discipline and i'm fine with the rationale behind the intention. But my question is how can a degrading form of punishment like facing the wall be even considered acceptable and being condoned in a myg setting? Where's the basic human dignity? Heck, even a normal child may fight against such degrading form of punishment. In the context of an id adult who couldn't fight 4 her rights, shouldn't we be even more mindful and protective against such acts on her"

I gave a quick response
"definition of degrading form of punishment varies to individuals"

He smsed
"If so, then i reckon definition of spousal abuse varies to individuals too. Let's keep quiet and not do anything about it. Is that ur point?"

I replied
"The context varies over time. When i was a child, punishment like being told to stand on a chair, face the wall... were not being considered as degrading, violating human dignity, unlike now. So wat form of punishment is acceptable now? Ppl know their rights, or are ppl abusing their rights for their own good? I can't answer these questions"

He said
"But wr r talking about adults with id who couldn't fight 4 their rights. What gives those volunteers the right to carry out such punishment on their trainees? My question to u is simple and i need to know. What would u have done if u were there?

I have given him my replies... What would you have done?

Swine flu / Mexican flu / H1N1 flu ..

2009-05-03T17:57:00.006+08:00

Hi all,

The recent developments of the flu have raised some concerns among some parents, especially in the participation of ACID. The current stand is to proceed with the camp with measures to be taken, e.g temp taking, isolation room etc. If the situation gets worse, pls be assured that the ACID committee will announce any changes.

I would like to remind everyone to keep a lookout for flu symptoms by the trainees and youself too. Do ensure that trainees wash their hands before and after teabreak. We'll also continue with taking temperature before class.

Pls inform your GLs or me if you will be joining us on 16 May. This helps us notify you in the event there's last min changes.

Thanks and have a good Vesak day weekend ahead!

- Jianyun

Special People

2009-05-01T21:39:00.002+08:00

Today, I met a 10-12 years old boy with his parents. The caregivers are in their 40s.

This boy is very hyperactive, he can't sit still for a minute (really, in fact within seconds he is up on his feet/engage with things). The caregivers were having a hard time catching up with him, making sure he does not hurt himselves/others. In addition, this is a special kid, as I observed his behaviour in comparison with kids of the same age group. I could also see that his focus (eye contact) is not there... his eyes were wandering around while he is busy with his activities. Fortunately, this boy is mild temper and he listens to his parents.

It takes alot of patience and love from the caregivers to understand these special people. As situation changes, the behaviour of these special people also changes! I can't imagine how tough it could be for the caregivers to keep on learning, to try to comprehen their children's actions and help them, in their whole lives.

Take my experience with Weizhi... I can't help but feel being lost. Could a special education professional help a special kid and able to benefit him for the whole of his life? How much can the caregivers learn and teach their children? Regardless of how much techniques the caregivers are being equipped, how many tools they could use to assist them in this mighty task, ultimately, the LOVE of the caregivers for their children, the LOVE they showered on them might still be the most important weapon in guiding their children along the way.... at least this is what I seen today!

-choon seng

How did BKTG started ?

2009-04-24T16:04:00.002+08:00

I am sure everyone has heard about the book that MYG is coming up with to document the history of MYG for the past 37 years.

Since then, I have been asked many questions ...
Who started BKTG ?

Unfortunately ... I have no reply.

BKTG was started on 7 May 1983.

According to ancient records, BKTG was first formed in Oct 1982 with the aim of basically providing pre-school training to those people with intelluctual disability on the waiting list of the day school.

However, a group of people with Intelluctual disability with behavioural problems who could not be admitted into MINDS' Schools was gradually included in the service ...

Then there was this point abt "Future Direction" ..

It says ... "It is expected that in the near future, the project will serve mainly those clients with behavioural problems. As such, volunteers would have to exercise more conviction and initiative, especially in the planning stages, it is forseen that the main area of service would be in the training of basic self-care skills."

(Looks familiar ? The same paragraph was posted 2 years ago.)

Anyway ... lately, we have been requesting the senior volunteers to check with their senior volunteers on who exactly started BKTG ...

I was happy that we have found some names :
Pioneer of BKTG - Boon Teck Beng followed by Janet Ho.

And fortunately, we have managed to find the contact of one of the pioneer, Janet Ho.

I have been in contact with her for the past few days, was hoping to invite her to join us for the BKTG anniversary however, she is busy with work on Saturdays !

Hopefully one day I will be able to arrange to meet up with her to see what memories can be shared with everyone. It will be so interesting to find out how much our pioneers have gone through in the past ... *I have sent her the blog address too*

Anniversary is once again around the corner ... many thanks for Zhuting, Choon Yee & Affiq for helping to organise =p

2009-04-22T23:34:00.002+08:00

I was at Tampines the other night when I saw a foreign worker lying face down by the side of road. At first, I thought he was drunk then as I walked pass him, he began to vomit and seem to be in great pain... No one was helping him.... so am I... Instinctively, I should have reacted! Feeling so ashamed of myself.... am working towards not letting it happen again!

On hindsight, I wonder if someone was to step forward to help, will others follow? I believe it will. Just like in our project, when we see our fellow volunteers doing something for our trainees/project, without much words, others will just come in & do their part and this characteristic is something that bond us together. In a month's time, we will be having another open house, alot of preparation to be done... alot of help is needed... and it will yet be another successful event!

"We need to learn to open up the heart and be able to give whenever we see a need. This means even little things. Not just material things but smiles, a nice word, time to listen and sometimes, just being there for others"

Someone mentioned before it is important to be brave to be different and not conform to the masses, so long as whatever one is doing is not detriment socially... so true in it!

In a couple of weeks, we will be celebrating our 26th anniversary, an achievement! Finding out how we got started has not been successful over the years, it would be great if someone can come forward to share their experiences back then...

CurL 09 - Challenge Ur Limits

2009-04-21T01:38:00.002+08:00

Hi ppl,

Thought I'll share on this upcoming event - CurL 09, which some of our trainees are participating.

Challenge Ur Limits (CurL) is a special project under Welfare Service Club (WSC) under NTU. It aims to challenge the abilities of the beneficiaries involved through fun and engaging activities.

This year's project is the repainting of a building located in the compound of Kwong Wai Shiu Hospital.

Date: 13 & 20 Jun
Time: 9 am - 5.30pm
Venue: Kwong Wai Shiu Hospital

The Volunteer Attachment Programme is on 13 Jun while actual painting itself is on 20th Jun (Sat). Trainees do not need to have any prior experience in painting. The organisers will be doing the base, coat and outline and all the trainees have to do is to put colours on the murals. The organisers are also conducting some games and performances, as well as a visit to the wards in the hospital.

We are targeting to send Ailing, Wulin, Wei Xiong, Keng Yew, Jimmy and Cheng Kwong for the activities (subject to caregivers' approval). The confirmed list of trainees will be updated. Direct vols, pls let me know if the trainees are suitable and caregivers agreeable.

For more information, visit http://clubs.ntu.edu.sg/ntuwsc/SP/CURL/event.html

Jianyun

Learning & Health Challenges 2009... 11-12 Apr

2009-04-07T09:20:00.002+08:00

For more info http://www.gqrmagonline.com/lcdetails.htm

What's going to happen at Learning & Health Challenges 2009...
DATES : 11 & 12 April 2009
VENUE : Suntec City Convention Centre – Hall 402

Objective
To address the needs of everyday learning challenges faced by today's children and to present them with a complete mind-body-soul / holistic learning experience that will enable them to excel emotionally, mentally and physically.

Event
Entry to the event is free and is open to the general public.
The proposed event will be held over the weekend of 11 and 12 April 2009, over the Good Friday holidays. Starting from 10:00am and ending at 8:00pm on both days, the event will be supported by about 90 exhibitors specially selected from both mainstream and non-traditional approaches towards learning. There will also be a seminar component that will include talks, demonstrations and hands-on activities presented by experts in these various fields of learning.

The seminar component will be held throughout the two days and entry is free.

There will be a total of 16 (8 per day) workshops, talks and demonstrations throughout the two days. Each session will be an hour long and experts from various fields will be presenting their views and methodologies.

Programme hours : 11:00am – 6:00pm daily
* Day 1 – Saturday 11/04/09
11:00 am – 12:00 pm Diet and You
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Neurofeedback
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm Proper Posture for Health
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm Exercise & Fitness
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm The Power of Hypnotherapy
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm Learning Techniques
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm Meditation
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm Learning Made Easy & Fun

* Day 2 – Sunday 12/04/09
11:00 am – 12:00 pm The Importance of Sleep
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Vitamins & Supplementations
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm Nutrition & Children with Special Needs
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm Enrichment Courses
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm Music Therapy
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm Visual Care
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm Motivation
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm Memory Power

* The programmes are tentative and subject to final confirmation.

2009-03-31T20:10:00.005+08:00

My BKTG Camp 2009

This year ... I have not been assigned a trainee for the camp !

A few of us were not assigned to trainees so that we will be able to help with the entire program, cleaning etc ... (that is logistic and everything else basically !) It has been a very different experience indeed as I have always been assigned to a trainee and each camp, we focus simply on participating in the activities and caring for the trainee ...

This year ... I am an observer ...

Observing the trainees, volunteers, organisers and every thing else ...

I am not sure if everyone has observed that each camp turned out very smoothly because there are always people who are ensuring that every thing is prepared before the next activity from games, to the area to water etc .. Every little portion is very important and all these contribute to the success of the camp .. Thanks to everyone for playing a part !

I always like sing-a-long at camp ..

Everyone is always so enthusiatic during sing-a-long in camps ... which is quite different from the usual class ... It's nice to see the trainees being engaged in songs & movements ...

Art & Craft is also an interesting activity to me ... every Art & Craft, we seem to learn new things about the trainee .. pushing them a little more to do their own Art & Craft ...

I have to admit that I do not have the creativity when it comes to games, Art & Craft ... I am so pleased to see the beautiful art pieces completed by our trainees.
Memories that they bring home with them at every camp.
Many trainee do have their own art work displayed at home !

The campfire was really quite cool ...
Thinking what the usual fan at home turned out to be on the Sat night was interesting ...
Let alone watching the camp comm performing the experiment and applying their Physics knowledge into it .... (Happenings on a Friday night !)
Everyone had fun dancing, singing ... it was partying for the trainees ....

Maybe the trainees had too much fun but nonetheless I was glad that the trainees slept so well on Sat night ... I have never seen Desmond, Timothy, Sze Min etc ... the whole lot of them asleep within 1-2 hours ... they must have been really tired ... it was a peaceful night ... I slept well too =p [Sleeping well is good for the trainee as they all look fresh and happy the next day !]

This is the 2nd year that we are inviting the caregivers over for lunch ...
Many caregivers or volunteers thought that this idea came from the chairpersons .. but .. haha .. NO ! I always like the idea of the caregivers joining us in activities as we rarely have the time to chat with them and bond. They are really nice people to talk to ...
I hope that this becomes a new tradition for our BK camp .....

Next upcoming event is ACID Camp !
Hope everyone will have as much fun during ACID ...

Anyone keen to organise BK camp next year ? =p

-Fan Han

We won again....

2009-03-30T01:11:00.006+08:00

Thanks to a great performance from the team led by Andy - Affiq, Gim Heng, Zhuting, Chan Leong, Wei Liang, Choon Yee, Simin, Jiat Chow and Choon Seng :)

We won the Captain Ball in last Sat's AGM...

Our own camp!

2009-03-30T00:52:00.006+08:00

How many years have we been holding BK Camp? Over 10years bah...

Things went very smoothly, all trainees slept very well... abit off the norm :)

Thanks to the camp comm for the excellent work despite busy with their studies =)

Congratulations for organising a successful BK Camp 09

2009-03-29T21:03:00.002+08:00

First of all, I would like to congratulate you and the camp comm team for organising such a successful camp. It is definitely a “Happiness Guarantee and Value for Memory” holiday camp.

SM was one of the trainees who enjoyed the “Two days One Night Holiday Resort” with “Fully Guided Tour.” He got to listen to his favourite songs all day long, ate his favourite food, including a bowl of noodles snatched from Serene. He could even “smell” the cake 10 metres away while Jianyun brought it out from the kitchen for our AGM members.

I have to salute to the parents of volunteers and Patricia for preparing the “Chinese meet India” cuisine. I am sure all the trainees and volunteers, including myself, enjoyed the food to the fullest. For information, I went for the second round.

WL enjoyed the “Hand and Leg Spa” service provided by our “Senior Therapist”, Fanhan. I am sure he would want the service every week if it is available. He was carrying the “Heart” crafted by him and told everyone he met that it was for his mother. I was touched by his action.

“Night tour” was fun! With a group of six volunteers and four trainees walked under the improvised poncho in a well organised manner which is as good as our SAF army night movement.

The campfire and disco night proved to be a success! WL got into the mood of Disco and kept on shaking his legs. SP and KY joined in the “YMCA” dance with the volunteers. BL gave a loud cheering once in a while. CK started swinging both hands in the air when the title “We are the world” was on-air. Tim and Des gave their most satisfying smile. CK even “invited” Tim for a dance the next morning.

JB reached the destination (pool) eventually with the creative idea by Affiq, Daniel and our fellow volunteers by putting a chair in front of him while he walks. I am sure this is a great achievement for him as well as for our fellow volunteers.

Feeding medicine to BP has to be very creative too. With Choon Seng, Patricia and Serene setting up a “Help Line” with Boon Peng’s father, they finally completed their mission.

Tim finally tried out the waterslides with the encouragement and guidance from Zhuting. Daniel and the team provided a Bathing Spa Service at the end of the swim. Bathing BP was challenging! With one did the shampooing and scrubbing, one did the showering and another one did the drying process, this proved to be a fast and efficient service. With the team excellent bathing service, they should be nominated for the best “Bathing Service Award.”

The two days resort ended with a prize presentation to all the trainees. They not only got to bring back their personalised photos and art pieces painted by them, most importantly, they brought back happiness and sweet memories. I am sure this apply to all our fellow volunteers too as I am still enjoying the “Good Feelings and Sweet Memories” till this moment.

Looking forward to the next camp in June!

-Shin Leong

BK Camp 2009

2009-03-27T13:26:00.002+08:00

Hi everyone,

BK Camp 09 was undeniably a great success! Though it rained briefly on Sat, it did not dampen our spirits and we had a memorable campfire and "disco night". The arts and craft session with the beads and and games with newspapers were enjoyable as well. =)

I would like to thank the BK Camp Comm (Zhuting, Vicky, Yiyan, Yueqi and Chan Keet) once again for all the hard work in organising the camp. Of course, not forgeting Yiting who helped with the initial planning.

And of course, thanks to all the volunteers ... Daniel, Hwei Hwei, Cristal, Simin, Eugene, Weiliang, Chen Yang, Choon Yee, Michelle, Jiat Chow, Pat, Choon Seng, Affiq, Anne, Lynette, Fui Kien, Gim Heng, Serene, Benjamin, Shin Leong, Harfia, Lily, Rachel, Chan Leong, Hui Zhen ... who were to help take care of our lovely trainees. Special thanks to Kelvin and Daniel for staying up all night to make sure Sze Min and Boon Peng did not run around.

Thanks for our drivers, Serene, Shin Leong and Eugene for ferrying the trainees and parents to and from Pasir Ris MRT. It's definitely a more comfortable ride than the old cranky MINDS van.

Not forgetting Eng Eng who baked the delicious birthday cakes and the cakes from her brother-in-law (http://www.juzbake.com/index.html). And Wee Seng, Siew Peng and Teck Choon for dropping by to say hi. Ah Ban managed to walk to the swimming pool due to much coaxing from Siew Peng =)

- Jianyun -

BKTG Annual Camp 2009

2009-03-02T09:38:00.002+08:00

The financial year of 2008/2009 is coming to an end soon ...
We have 1 month left of this financial month with quite a lot of tasks to complete ...

Yesterday, we have started the 1st home visit out of the 15 to complete ...

Every year during or after the Chinese New Year, we will always pay the caregivers or families of the trainees a visit at home (if possible). This extra bonding session outside usual class has been going on for many many years ... It is a good opportunity for both the volunteers (direct or other volunteers) to discuss the happenings of the past year in school or at home with the families and things.

Many a times, we will tend to learn more about the trainees during the home visit and at the same time the caregivers/parents also find out what we do in class and the plans we have for the next year.

Do join in the home visits wherever you can !

Another big highlight will be the upcoming BK annual camp on the 20 Mar till 22 Mar.

20 Mar will be the AGM or simply known as the volunteers retreat/gathering night.
21 Mar: ~ Noon till 22 Mar: ~ Noon will be the actual camp for our trainees !

Do let your GLs know if you are able to join us for the camp ....

Fan Han

CCA Fair

2008-11-26T19:20:00.002+08:00

The annual CCA fair was held 22 Nov @ Ngee Ann City... MINDS being part of CCA definitely came in full force to support the event...

MINDS MYG has a game stall...

Earlier on, we participated in the walkathon

Outing to Marina Barrage

2008-11-26T18:56:00.007+08:00

15 Nov, we went to Marina Barrage... the latest downtown icon that was officially opened on 1 Nov http://www.pub.gov.sg/Marina/Pages/default.aspx

Thanks to Zhuting & Yiting for organising this outing and being our "tour guides" :)

... All these years ...

2008-11-22T16:02:00.004+08:00

I should be writing this post in English but somehow I am in the mood to write in Chinese ... (I guess I express myself better in Chinese than English =p)

前几天，我个朋友问我－你还记得你第一天来到BKTG的情况吗？
想一想，发现10年就这样过了。。。
我很清楚地记得我第一天到ＢＫ的时候，那时候我们还是借住在Special O的地方。
一进去就看到很多大姐姐和大哥哥很专心的照顾着Trainee ... 一点都不需要任何人来提醒他们现在应该做哪些事情。。。从他们的身上，我学到了很多。。。
而我也是在那个时候慢慢的培养一个习惯 - 就是研究其他的人，然后慢慢的把技术学起来。。。

当是的我只有17岁。。。我真的不知道也不记得为何那个年纪的我，可以那么的专心的在BK.
之后因为某种原因，我离开了3或4年。

在2005 年四月，我决定找回我人生很重要的这一部份！
在当时年纪轻轻的我来说，BK对我的影响很深。
所以我终究离不开BK的。。。

每个礼拜看到我们的学生，我的心情就会好很多。。
虽然我们常常必须教他们很简单的事情而且可能要重复很多遍。。我还是很愿意。。。
就像简单的数学在作业簿上的练习和实际的用铜板来给他们算钱是没有一定的连接的。。。
他们能在作业簿上把2+3答对不代表他们会明白两块加三块。。
这是我们大家都要慢慢学习。。。

希望BK能努力加油。。。
等下我就要放假去了。。。
我会想念大家的

Something to Share ...

2008-11-19T14:57:00.003+08:00

Just wanted to share this with all of you ....
-------------------------------------------------

A blind boy sat on the steps of a building with a hat by his feet. He held up a sign which said: 'I am blind, please help.' There were only a few coins in the hat. A man was walking by. He took a few coins from his pocket and dropped them into the hat. He then took the sign, turned it around, and wrote some words. He put the sign back so that everyone who walked by would see the new words.

Soon the hat began to fill up. A lot more people were giving money to the blind boy. That afternoon the man who had changed the sign came to see how things were. The boy recognized his footsteps and asked, 'Were you the one who changed my sign this morning? What did you write?'

The man said, 'I only wrote the truth. I said what you said but in a different way.' What he had written was: 'Today is a beautiful day and I cannot see it.'

Do you think the first sign and the second sign were saying the same thing?

Of course both signs told people the boy was blind. But the first sign simply said the boy was blind. The second sign told people they were so lucky that they were not blind. Should we be surprised that the second sign was more effective?

Moral of the Story: Be thankful for what you have. Be creative. Be innovative. Think differently and positively.

Invite others towards good with wisdom. Live life with no excuse and love with no regrets. When life gives you a 100 reasons to cry, show life that you have 1000 reasons to smile. Face your past without regret. Handle your present with confidence. Prepare for the future without fear. Keep the faith and drop the fear.

Great men say, 'Life has to be an incessant process of repair and reconstruction, of discarding evil and developing goodness.... In the journey of life, if you want to travel without fear, you must have the ticket of a good conscience.'

The most beautiful thing is to see a person smiling...
And even more beautiful is, knowing that you are the reason behind it!!!

-Fan Han

My experience at BKTG

2008-11-02T11:24:00.000+08:00

I am writing to share with you guys what volunteering is like at the Basic Knowledge Training Group and how the experience had been for me personally. Recruitment is in full swing and hopefully, writing this would encourage more people to step up as we are perennially short of volunteers. However, this is not propaganda but is primarily about the real people, real experiences and real relationships that I had seen in the short time I had been here.

Many of you may have the impression that intellectually disabled people are hard to handle and harder to befriend. Indeed, I wasn’t exactly sure what I was getting myself into when I signed up and can’t help but wonder if I am able to get comfortable with them. On my first few visits, seeing the volunteers taking good care of the trainees and treating all behavioural issues with patience and understanding was a deeply humbling experience. The trainees can be hard to manage at times and very often, they show little progress despite the best efforts. These people know what real charity is and are willing to care for the trainees totally unrelated to them, taking only satisfaction in the fact that they had alleviated some burden for the care-takers and let the trainees enjoy a happier time.

When I started engaging with the trainees, I did have doubts that the activities we organised did not register with them, since they don’t talk and generally don’t do as they are told. However, during parting time, it was very surprising and heart-warming to see one or two trainees give a smile and wave you goodbye. It does feel good to be appreciated and have a special bond with your trainee! All in all, most of the trainees are not too difficult to take care, and there are always other friendly volunteers around to help out in tricky situations.

Lastly, I must mention the awesome BKTG volunteers. They do feel like one big family in disguise! Besides the regular dinners and occasional drinking sessions, they are great fun to be around with and are there for you when you need advice (or simply someone to listen to heartbreak stories). It is quite amazing to see how much camaraderie the volunteers have in spite of the gulf in backgrounds. I think if there is just one special factor that bonds people to BKTG, it has to be the enormously meaningful relationships between volunteers here. Individually, our small and little baby efforts may count for little. But together, we made the world a much happier place for all the trainees under our care.

-Weiliang

Open House - 3 Jan 09

2008-10-24T15:17:00.002+08:00

As most of you might know by now, we are planning our very first open house on 3 Jan 09. The objectives behind this open house

1. Conducting volunteer recruitment;
2. Creating public awareness of people with intellectual disabilities

The primary focus of the open house is to recruit volunteers to sustain the running of the project! It is well documented that over the years, BKTG has volunteers shortage and if we don't do something drastic now, it might not even be able to sustain its service, not to mentioned providing quality service to the special people!

We will be sending out posters/flyers to be posted in CC with close proximity to TGS. In addition, we will be distributing flyers to Kembangan estate, linking up with CDC. Banners will also be displayed at TGS & near Kembangan MRT. This is to reach out to the public.... (we are targetting another Open House for nearby schools/JCs/Polys in late Feb)

On the day itself, we will invite those who registered with us to visit our project! On the day itself, we will have an opportunity to showcase what a difference volunteers can make to the life of our trainees. Also, to show to the public, the hidden talents of our trainees.

If you have any comments/suggestions for the open house, pls let Choon Seng, Jianyun or Fan Han know.

Thanks.

2008-10-24T14:25:00.002+08:00

Like anyone of us, our trainees will feel unwell, will fall sick. Sometimes we have difficulty explaining the pain we are suffering, describing the discomfort to the doctors, we are also potentially ignorant to alot of medical symptoms that warrant early attention and treatment.

What happen to our trainees? Without equipping them with the necessary communication skills, they will only suffer silently, the people around may not be able to pick up the symptoms much early, the doctors will not able to give a more accurate diagnosis. (Luckily, Jee Ban's case was exceptional, was detected and handled appropriately... thanks to the fine work & vigilant of our volunteers.)

Without relevant/sufficient communication skill, our trainees will also not be able to express how to feel, protest what they don't like, manage their emotion as they seek to be understood from those around them.

It may not be easy to build up the communication skills of our trainees & they may not be able to pick up the skills. For those who can pick up at least one form of communication skill, it will help them... for those who can't, its not the end yet. If we are observant and sensitive to their behaviour, any slight change from the norm, we could be able to sense it and study into it carefully =)

2008-08-07T18:03:00.002+08:00

3 months and no posting... is this blog going to end? Maybe...people might have forgotten about its existence...

===================================

Every sat afternoon, I look forward to class. Lesson starts 3pm but I usually reach around 2.30pm. Some teachers would have reached and there is Desmond, CK, SM, JB and SP. Before lesson starts, teachers would be playing songs such as country music (e.g. top of the world, take me home country road) and SM would sway his body, clap and nod his head, or chinese songs (e.g. 小薇, 老鼠爱大米) and we could see Tim singing and enjoying himself. Most of us would dance to the music because genetically, we like music. In the last class, we started to play remote control car... ha ha and WL was so poor in it.

Class starts with sing-along to prepare us for the day and get us into mood...

Adapting to change...

2008-04-29T23:26:00.002+08:00

It has been sometime since I last come on board... haha because my PC giving me some problems, finally resolved =) [Is your machine giving you problem? If not, why aren't you writing? Nothing worth discussing regarding BK/MYG? Maybe we should make sure everyone post something in the blog on a regular basis ;D]

Pat and I met up with some MYG volunteers during a gathering for a ex-volunteer who is now working in Bahrain. Ha ha quiet a good mix, volunteers from AMK, RO, WE, BK... almost EP (but Huafang can't make it last min). Beside updating each others, we just never stop talking about MYG, our clients, our volunteers.... haha, a group of senior volunteers still so active for MYG :p

AMK and BK were projects set up the earliest, we are 25 this year & AMK, 26th. Both have almost identical clients profile because we were set up for the same objective but serving clients from different parts of the island.

We faced the same issues such as ageing trainees, volunteers shortage, objectives/lessons for our trainees... fortunately, MYG is setting up task force to look into the ageing issues and if you have any views just let me know.

Volunteers retention is always an issue for both projects, primary reason is our trainees' profile and then follow by volunteers' profile. We can't change our trainees' profile because the project exist for that reason. But we can definitely adapt to the changing profile of volunteers. We will have to manage volunteer's expectation much differently compared to the past. In addition, more and more VWOs are coming out and "competition" for a already limited pool of volunteers are getting tougher. How are we going to do that? Ha ha, we really have a good discussion on this and I shall keep it for discussion with the committee.

Objectives/lessons for our trainees. Do you know MYG projects (especially the 1st 5 projects) follow almost an identical programme - singalong, individual lesson, vocational training (which we changed it to PE/handicraft a few years ago) , tea break? We replaced vocational training to PE/handicraft as we felt back then that there is no longer a need to do headphone coiling for group B & C trainees since they are unlikely to work in EDC and physical exercise is a good form for them to sweat it out & stay fit =) This is an example of change.

Year in year out, GLs will discuss within the group to formulate new training programme for their trainees and if we observed closely, what's done now might have already been done 5-10 years ago. Also, we are running out of ideas on what types of programme are going to be useful for our trainees. We agreed that doing academic stuff is no longer relevant for our ageing trainees, we might have to focus on some life skill, self-care! And we also felt that it can be rather stressful for our volunteers to plan for programmes that our trainees will enjoy (fresh, creative tasks to attract and substain interest?). In the end, we felt doing recreational, social interaction activities might be something worth considering, beside making lesson fun for trainees, volunteers will also enjoy & prefer facilitating such activities. [Ha ha a win-win situation for trainees & volunteers] Within BK, we have been doing individual lesson cum games/interactive activites for our trainees... that's great & hope we can continue to do well and grow the project

Maybe we should expand our network, have more such discussions, finding out more from other projects and learn from each other. Together, we can adapt ourself to the changing time and progress....

-choon seng

PS: You can consider writing something on our coming 25th anniversary... we are 25 this year!

The curious incident of the dog in the night-time...

2008-03-18T09:06:00.002+08:00

... Siobhan has long blong hair and wears glasses which are made of green plastic. And Mr. Jeavons smells of soap and wears brown shoes tha have approximately 60 tiny circular holes in each of them....

... Mostly I read books about science and maths. I do not like proper novels. In proper novels people say things like, "I am veined with iron, with silver and with streaks of common mud. I cannot contract into the firm fist which those clench who do not depend on stimulus." What does this mean? I do not know....

The policeman said, "I am going to ask you once again..."

I rolled back onto the lawn and pressed my forehead to the ground again and made the noise that Father calls groaning. I make this noise when there is too much information coming into my head from the outside world. It is like when you are upset and you hold the radio against your ear and you tune it halfway between two stations so that all you get is white noise and then you turn the volume right up so that this is all you can hear and then you know you safe because you cannot hear anything else.

The policeman took hold of my arm and lifted me onto my feet.

I didn't like him touching me like this. And this is when I hit him.

How did the above sound to you? These are extracts from the novel title "The curious incident of the dog in the night-time" by Mark Haddon. Some of you might have read it. So what's so special about this book?

-choon seng

A colourful way of life...

2008-03-06T17:19:00.003+08:00

"..gunshot bang bang... XXX on the floor.." .... haha I only managed to kill one =)

That's something for the volunteers during our annual camp for our trainees... a game that's adding the element of fun and creating the excitment among the volunteers (while they took care of our trainees during the camp)!

The props for the activities were beautifully made, with obvious effort (i meant alot of effort) spent to complete them. The programmes were fun, innovative and easy for our trainees to enjoy... the handicraft were well designed and planned for them take back for memory!

Well.... below is the committee who made the camp enjoyable for our trainees and volunteers!

Thank you girls!

There is no surprises from our trainees during the camp... the usual laughter and excitment were generated among them... I am sure even Weibin enjoyed himself =)

A moment for us to remember.... for the first time, the caregivers joined us for the camp break!

-choon seng

Brand new year !

2008-01-14T11:06:00.000+08:00

It's 2008 !
A brand new year ~

A big thank you to all for all the efforts placed in 2007 ...
35th Anniversary is a success !
And now we are - MINDS MYG (Serving persons with Intelluctual Disability)
The photos and video will be released some time after Chinese New Year !

Radiance has undergone a big revamp.
I have posted it under this link ... do take a look !
(It's very nicely done !)

http://bktgmyg.googlepages.com/Radiance.pdf

~Fan Han~

MYG 35th Anniversary

2007-11-19T23:57:00.000+08:00

Looks like everyone is enjoying last Sat's concert... something that was created out of nothing... a journey that have everything effort, sweat, laughter, tear, stress, anxiety... Miracle does happen!

So what does MYG 35th anniversary mean do you? I heard some volunteers talking about it and I am surprise by some of the comments.

35th Anniversary - Internal Concert !

2007-11-19T21:34:00.000+08:00

Dear all,

A big Thank You to all who has made the 1st concert a successful one !

The months of sweat and hard work .. from designing and painting the puzzle, cherographing, teaching and guiding the trainees, purchasing of accessories and clothes, tea break during rehearsals, coordination till the actual performance .... You guys were the BEST !!!!

Our trainees were on the stage doing the YMCA and I am sure all of you are SO PROUD of them !!!! Can't wait to see the video of the 17th concert ~~~

Our last and grand finale is the concert on the 8th Dec !

I am sure it will be another fantastic one ...

Thank you BKTG volunteers ! =)

---Fan Han ----

Remember

2007-10-31T02:51:00.000+08:00

You know it's not always what the trainees do for me (how they make me feel, the potential I see in them) that keeps me here, but also what I see in my fellow volunteers that makes me want to be part of all this.

Like the 'go-all-out' attitude towards trainees, assuring me that all the internal struggles I put up with each week (while fighting for time to complete personal tasks) are worth the effort. Like the displays of extraordinary patience and other outstanding qualities shining through every unassuming appearance, causing me much pain and embarrassment as my own conduct pales in comparison.

Every person I have come to know through this volunteering platform is a gem in every sense of the word. The moment I look at one, I cannot help but hold my gaze. Even when several of them are gathered together, each is still so dazzling one simply cannot deny the individual contributions that result in this collective brilliance.

And I remember. How the unrefined stone that was I, gradually obtained some luminance of my own, when different gems rubbed off their magnificence on me. So grateful shall I always be. For the constant inspiration, for the unceasing encouragement. If occasionally I seem to have forgotten and gone away, know that I see the things you have done for everyone, which therefore includes me.

For contributing in your own special way, my world has become such a meaningful place.

Thank you.

Huizhen

Ways to address challenging behaviours and emotions

2007-10-14T23:45:00.000+08:00

I attended the talk by MINDS "Ways to address challenging behaviours and emotions" last Tue. Just want to share with you...

First, we must know what is the purpose of the behaviour? Almost all behaviours have a purpose.
1. Attention
2. Defiant
3. Angry
4. Tired
5. Long day
6. Health reason (Physical/Mental)

Some challenging behaviours/emotions
1. Aggression
2. Self-injury
3. Definace
4. Hyperactivity
5. Anxiety
6. Depression
7. Sleep disturbances
8. Stereotypic behaviours

Strategies were discussed to handle such behaivours/emotions.
1. Using diversion to another activity
2. Teach to communicate what they want
3. Ground rules
4. Clear, calm instruction
5. Directed discussion
6. Ignoring
7. Logical consequences
8. Over-correction
9. Cool-off (or Time out)

Some discussion were done on the strategies!

1. Using diversion to another activity
- Preventive
- when you observe that your traniee may start to show some challenging behaviour (e.g. looking sad, grumpy, twitching fingers, crying softly, refusing to eat, etc)
- Get attention
- Redirect to another activity then praise

I remember such technique was used on Weizhi. Once he started to show sign of frustration, he was brought to listen to his favorite CD to calm him down. Only after that could we get him do another task. You must be able to identify the signs of your trainee and think what activity you will want him to be re-direct to.

2. Yan Hong shared on her experience on "teach to communicate what they want". She has a student who will yell/talk loudly when she is upset. What Yan Hong did was she will talk to her in a gentle voice and keep repeating to her student to speak gently (emphasising gently throughout the course of the communication) and it worked.

3. Some "ground rules" could be set so that your trainee established a common understanding with you what could not be done in certain settings. E.g. Remember we tell Weizhi not to jump inside enclosed areas (classroom) and he is able to do so in open areas? Other ground rules could include talk nicely, no-shouting, walking no running.

4. On "clear, calm instructions", when a behvaiour is inappropriate, you give a clear instruction about what to stop doing, and what to start doing. E.g. "Rina, stop crying. Please get ready to go to the centre."

5. In "directed discussion", it is used for minor behaviour and when your trainee is likely to practice "good" behaviour when reminded. E.g. "That is not where your shoes should be put - where should they go?"

6. Ignoring is usually applied on minor behaviours that are meant for attention, e.g. whining, soft crying, shouting briefly. Initially, when you start using ignoring, the problem may become worse, before getting better. You will only pay attention when the person has stopped the behaviour and praise. E.g. "It is good that you have stopped crying. Now please take your bath"

Take for the case of someone who is attention seeking. If we scold him when he does wrong and hardly praises him (said something to him) when he does right, how will he feel? Will he be "encourage" to do wrong since that's the time he will get your attention? Always remember to praise to encourage good behaviour. Don't be stingy with your praise!

That's about it... think about it :)

-choon seng

Bizlink talk... not really

2007-09-20T00:53:00.000+08:00

I attended Bizlink talk last Sat to understand more on how Bizlink helps people in the diabled community looks for jobs in open/sheltered employment. Well I am not sharing on this... instead it is on something that I encountered during the talk.

One of the caregiver was venting her frustration on her experience with Bizlink. Her son went to Bizlink for vocational assessment in 2005 however he did not make it through to be selected for employment. She was more upset with Bizlink rejection letter to her, as there was no alternatives/references given to her, than her son failing to go pass the assessment. Her whole world collapsed then and she felt helpless. She is not expecting her son to get a job to support the family rather it was more of an avenue to let son integrate into the society... in fact she was even prepared to give her son more allowance in order to make it substainable for him to work.

As she relates the incident, I could see and sense her disappointment & frustration even till this moment. Fortunately, she is very persistent in seeking employment for her son (now at KFC) and her effort finally paid off. I am glad to hear that. It is heart warming to see the love this mother showed for her son but more importantly, her never say die, never give up attitude is something for us to learn.

I relate it to another incident that happened to Boon Ling early this year. He was caught throwing things off his HDB flat as most of you recall. I still remembered clearly the relief showed by his mother when this incident is finally closed. If not for Mr Goh -> MINDS -> Boon Ling's TDC intervention, she would be totally lost then.

What I am trying to say, support (either internal within the family or external from organisation/volunteers like you) to caregivers are very important because it does continue to give them the extra hope & belief despite the challenges they have experienced with their children for so many years. Sometimes, just some words of encouragement or a pat of the shoulder could easily give them the extra courage to move on in their lives... this I have just experienced it.

-choon seng

PS: Anyway, we have feedback to Bizlink to be more careful in their rejection letter to people who failed to make it through their vocational assessment... so that in the moment of disappoint of not getting pass the assessment, the families will still retain some hope with the society :)

Hitting head... Bitting hands

2007-09-09T03:17:00.000+08:00

Sooner or later I will be doing that, just like Weizhi... frustrated! Cos I really don't know what is happening to Weizhi recently :(

Ever since there was some disruption to his DAC schedule, a couple of weeks back (things in DAC are back to norm soon after), Weizhi has been displaying some behaviour which I am unable to comprehend. It has been a nightmare at least for me when he went outing (this is happening in his DAC outings too). He has been wetting himself since the last 2 outings... in fact tracing back, it was found that whenever he went outing with us, he would wet himself on the transport back to project. This seem common. However, for the last outing, it got even worst though I tried my best bringing him to toilet as frequent as possible. He already wet himself twice in Sentosa. He then wet himself on the transport back to the project not once, not twice but thrice. It has been a nightmare for me bringing him for outing and it is also getting on my nerve as I keep reminding myself to remember to bring him to toilet.

Today on his way to project, he wet himself on the taxi and when he alight, he wet himself again!

There was alot of speculation did he do it deliberately because everytime when he wet himself, it was quite wet (alot). However, whenever he wet himself, he would be very frustrated, hit himself & want to change his wet clothing and I could see he is upset because his eyes were red. If it is not deliberate, it would mean incontinence and initially I suspect is it due to the behaviour management medication he was taking. However, after spoken to his mum, I found that he was only on medication for 2 days and have stopped taking it since then. Could it possible be incontinence out of sudden?

I wonder what could the doctor do if we bring him to the doctor for diagnosis, for incontinence treatment? Would the doctor understand him and know how to attend to people with special needs?

To make matter worse... I don't know why he is starting to hit his head and bit his hands so hard & so often nowadays. I can understand if he did it immediately after wetting himself or if the weather is hot. What I couldn't understand is even after bringing him to the playground to cool him down and the weather was good, he still did that to himself. Even when he is in the classroom listening to his favourite Westlife songs and with fan directly blowing on him, he still hit his head & bit his hands. I could see his eyes were red and yet couldn't do anything, I felt so useless.

Unlike Phang Wei who is usually frustrated by hot weather and who will calm down after cooling him, offering him food and letting him listen to his radio, Weizhi is different. It seem I need to put in more effort to understand him... maybe I am not up to the task!

Sigh.... I am not giving up but I don't know how to help him!

-choon seng

Volunteer Recruitment/Retention

2007-08-20T23:35:00.000+08:00

Hi,

It has been quite a while since I posted something on this blog. Just want to share with you guys some thoughts that came across me recently, a valid concern I had.

During one of the recent class, Huizhen told me someone commented our programme was very well structured! I was quite happy to hear that (so is Huizhen when she was telling me) because that was something we have been trying to work on and improve, instead of being haphazard – which some of us felt.

The effort put in has paid off. It is also made possible by the presence of more regular, committed volunteers in the past few months that help to minimize disruption to the programme and to ensure continuous learning for our trainees. The programme is flexible enough to be executed during shortfall of volunteers. What's left is for us to document down the contingency plans, to allow volunteers to facilitate the session as and when needed.

With the above, does it mean that we are ready to expand our service to handle more trainees so that it will benefit more people with special needs?

Well, volunteer recruitment/retention is always a challenge for MYG and especially so for BK for many years. We do not have a continuous flow of new volunteers joining us, to cover the shortfall as well as to succeed the existing volunteers, who will move on to another stage of their life sooner or later. Our trainees profile seems not attractive enough to sustain the interests of new volunteers, to encourage them to continue offering their service to the project. But this is something we don't want to change because our trainees profile is the reason why BKTG exist. However, we can definitely put in place plans to deal with challenges in volunteer recruitment/retention. For example, we have plans (just need to execute them) to make arrangement with institutions/organizations to expose the project to more people and potentially recruit more new volunteers. I believe you have more ideas to share. So, do share your thoughts, k!

We have worked out something for our programme; it's time for us to work hand in hand to grow our volunteer pool. On good times with sufficient resources, we should put in place the proper infrastructure so that in times of crisis, things will just naturally fall in place and ride us through the tough times!

-choon seng

National Day Outing

2007-08-06T23:06:00.000+08:00

Hey ppl!

Here's the highly anticipated (and procrastinated) results of our National Day Outing - Chek Jawa!

Chek Jawa is a swamp in Pulau Ubin, and it was *almost* reclaimed. Fortunately a group of nature lovers petitioned to have it conserved. Recently, a broadwalk is open to allow visitors clean feet while examining the flora and fauna. For more info, pls go to http://chekjawa.nus.edu.sg/

Details of the outing below:
Date: 9th Aug 07 (Thu)
Meeting Place: Tampines MRT
Meeting Time: 9am
Approx End Time: 2pm
Contact Person: Jianyun
Mode of transport: bus -> boat -> bicycle -> broadwalk (wow, 4 B's!)
To Bring: water, camera, hat, sunblock, insect repellant, spare clothes, sneakers / canvas shoes, snacks
Wet Weather plan: None (I'll send sms if it's cancelled) Watch movie?

SMS me if you are coming so I know who are the lazy pigs to wait for. Lastly, I must mention that the tides will be quite high (abt 2 m) and we may not see muddy flats. In any case, you can take it as a Pulau Ubin cycling trip. ;p

Hope to see ya,
Jianyun

Games to Help Improve Communication and Social Skills

2007-07-31T17:19:00.000+08:00

Hi,

Read the following... thought some of the ideas shared was great! In general, having visual aids (improves understanding) will definitely help in communicating what we want & encourage/faciliate communication from the other party as well :D

-choon seng

=============================

Children with ADD/ADHD sometimes have a difficult time communicating with others. It may be because of low self-esteem or it could be that they have a hard time interpreting facial expressions other use. It may be that they are self conscious or they may have negative experiences in the past.

Whatever the reason, there are ways to help your child develop communication skills and have fun at the same time. Below are several games and activities that you can play together to help develop their ability to communicate and socialize with other children.

1. Telling Stories Cut out pictures from magazines and place them in a box. Take turns pulling out one picture and tell a story of what you think is happening in the picture. For older children, have the stories become more complicated. For younger children you can start with looking at the faces in the pictures and talking about what their facial expressions might tell you.

2. Play Feeling Charades Make up cards with as many different feelings as you can think of: Happy, Sad, Angry, Excited, Bored, Scared, Nervous, Unhappy, Tired, Pleased, Interested, Uninterested, etc. Each person takes a card and acts out the feeling without saying anything. This is great for those that may have a hard time reading facial expressions.

3. Play Action Charades Make up cards with as many action words as you can think of: Run, Jump, Walk, Hopped, Ran, Skipped, Hurried, Tiptoed, Stir, Stretched, Rolled, Hit, etc. Make other cards with sentences, such as: "The boy ____________ to his friend's house." Have each person take one card from each pile and put the sentence together to act it out. Have everyone else guess what they are doing.

4. Use puppets Sometimes children find it easier to talk if they are doing it through a puppet. Have a variety of puppets, some happy, some sad, some silly. Have your child use the appropriate puppet to tell you about their day.

5. Role Playing Make up cards with different activities. This can be geared toward whatever age or situation your child is currently going through. Cards can include: Playing with a friend, Sharing a toy, Arguing with a friend, Being the teacher, Being scared of something, Feeling left out, Going to a party, etc. Take turns playing the different people in the situation so that your child can get a feel for how all of the people may feel and look at situations from different points of view.

6. Finish the Story Use pictures from magazines and tell a short story about the picture. Stop the story so that your child can continue it and make their own ending. You can also use this with your child's books. Stop the story a few pages before it ends and ask them how they think it should end. Let them know there is no right or wrong way for it to end, each person might have a different ending.

7. Picture Box Use a shoe box and put pictures all around it on the outside of the box. Put a number on each picture and have cards inside the box with the numbers. Have your child choose a number from the box and then describe the picture. Have them give as many details as possible, who is in the picture, what are they doing, what else can you see, what shapes can they find in the picture, etc.

8. How Do You Feel? Make up cards for feelings, for younger children, draw pictures and have them hanging up somewhere your child can reach. Several times during the day have them use the cards to let you know how they are feeling.

9. Guess What Happened to Me!! Have a board where your child can keep memories of exciting things that have happened to them. For school age children, have them tell you one exciting or interesting thing that happened during the day and they can write the story or for younger ones, you can write the story. Keep the stories posted so they can go back over and see what has happened to them.

10. Conversation Ball If your child continuously interrupts during other people's conversations, use a conversation ball. During discussions, have the person that is talking hold onto a ball. No one else can speak. Once the first person is done, they hand the ball to the next person that wants to add to the conversation. Only the person holding the ball can speak.

Sharing photos from Taman Negara Trip

2007-07-16T00:38:00.000+08:00

Hi guys,

just to share the photos which Jianyun and i had taken during our Taman Negara trip from 29th June to 3rd July. Yes, we did miss one BKTG session. Really thanks to you guys who helped out on the 30th June! Along the trip, BKTG was always one of the topic we had conversed =) Not to worry, no gossiping but serious discussion on BKTG and trainees! Haha..

Check it out:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/9699442@N02/sets/72157600832070248/detail/

Cheers,
June & Jianyun

Should we insist on eye contact with people who have autism spectrum disorders?

2007-07-08T23:40:00.000+08:00

Just to share on an article titled as above from Indiana Resource Center for Autism. I felt it is applicable to all, not just for people with autism.

Enjoy the following extracts :)

-choon seng

===========================

Some people who have autism actively avoid eye contact and appear confused and anxious when it occurs. Some seemed to make eye contact relatively early but later reported they were actually looking at something that fascinated them (such as their reflection in one's eyeglasses). When cued “Look at me,” some make eye contact that recipients experience more as a staring gaze than as a communicative exchange. Some gradually learn to make eye contact and to read simple meanings that they have come to understand through experiences with what happens to them when a particular person’s eyes have specific look.

Many appear to become more adept at making eye contact as comfort and competencies in social situations increase. Some report that their ability to make eye contact depends on context. For example, when an individual is comfortable and feeling relatively competent, he may be able to tolerate such exchanges. When in confusingly complex, overloading and other anxiety prompting situations, the same individual may overtly avoid eye contact. Many seem to become more comfortable with eye contact, as well as better at reading some of the messages, over time. Few, it seems, report that eye contact ever becomes a really useful means for either receiving or sharing mutually understood messages. Few appear to feel confident concerning their abilities to read messages that may be conveyed via the eyes of various people in their lives.

In determining where we stand in the midst of ongoing controversy, it seems reasonable to consider what our purposes for expecting or "requiring" eye contact really are. Having defined our purposes, we need to ponder whether those purposes are best served by strategies that we employ.

Educators have been taught that it is essential to get individuals' attention before beginning instruction and to recapture attention to task when peoples' demeanors suggest that their attention is waning. To accomplish this task, teachers often first attempt to get attention by cuing "Look at me." They also often assume that they have individuals' attention when they "get eye contact" and that those who do not conform cannot be paying attention. Thus, when individuals who have autism seem to avoid looking into the eyes of teachers and others with whom they interact, the strategy that comes most naturally and is often pursued quite intently is the verbal cue "Look at me." If an individual who has an autism spectrum disorder fails to respond within what is viewed as a reasonable length of time, the cue may be repeated more forcefully. If the person still fails to look as directed, misinterpretations of why the person isn't "complying" may fuel futile power struggles that only frustrated everyone concerned and further thwart the abilities of individuals with autism to respond. Whether requesting eye contact is a wise approach to focusing attention depends both on the person who has autism and on circumstances surrounding the expectation.

Sometimes getting an individual to “make eye contact” becomes a high priority that falls under the rubric of “compliance and direction following” training. Individualized education programs often include objectives such as “will make eye contact when requested 80% of the time”. Some goals and objectives seem to be stated in context of assumptions that students with autism spectrum disorders have sufficient understanding of social conventions to make routine judgments about where, when, and with whom eye contact is appropriate and expected and/or that they are consistently able to spontaneously initiate and selectively maintain eye contact in social situations. We need to re-examine assumptions that undergird choices among instructional/interactive strategies, to define purposes that we hope to accomplish, and to candidly assess whether hoped-for outcomes are being met. While attempting to maximize adaptive behaviors on the part of individuals who have autism spectrum disorders, we too must adapt when observed responses clearly indicate that our purposes are not being achieved.

People who have autism spectrum disorders have difficulty with reading even the most overt social cues in context. They have extraordinary difficulty with reading more subtle body language, including messages often conveyed via the eyes. In addition to difficulties with attending to and interpreting information that is embedded in social context, some have great difficulty with attending to and coordinating two sources of sensory input at once. For example, astute teachers often observe that a student with autism “looks out of the window all the time, just doesn’t appear to be paying attention at all, but then can tell me everything I said.” It appears likely that the described student has difficulty with coordinating listening and looking behaviors and, perhaps, with receiving and processing information coming from multiple sensory channels. Insisting that he make eye contact might well render him unable to take in and store auditory input. Or… he may be able to coordinate looking and listening in some situations but not in others.

A 30-year-old “high functioning” man who was diagnosed with autism at age three and a half. He has described his difficulties with eye contact in words that are echoed by many individuals who have the disorder:

“Eye contact is something that I have always had trouble with. It does not come naturally to me and I do not appreciate having to give it all of the time, especially to people that I do not know. All of the stress that is put on doing it makes me more nervous, tense, and scared. Doing it also assumes that I can read the message in another person’s eyes. Don’t count on it! I can look at a person’s eyes and not be able to tell what they are saying to me…

… as a child, my eye contact was much worse than it is right now. People without autism could not understand why I would not look them in the eye… just because I am not making eye contact with you does not mean that I am not listening to you or paying attention to you. I can concentrate better not having to keep eye contact at the same time. I tell people, `You have a choice. Do you want a conversation or do you want eye contact? You will not get both unless I am comfortable with you and do not have to concentrate so much on the eye contact’.”

When developing strategies aimed at focusing and maintaining attention of the part of folks who have autism spectrum disorders, we need to consider idiosyncratic ways that individuals take in and process information. We need to recognize how conventional social expectations may, in fact, interfere with learning for some. Guiding individuals in focusing and engaging in tasks specifically related to the activity at hand is often more effective than trying to obtain attention through eye contact and then expecting that the person can quickly shift attention to a set of task-related stimuli. When, where, with whom, and whether to insist on eye contact with people who have autism spectrum disorders remains controversial. But… the need to define the purposes we wish to achieve through our instructions and expectations, and to assess (through individuals’ responses) whether those purposes are being served is clear.

Eye contact is a very social, almost intimate, type of interaction. When, whether and why to insist that individuals engage in that exchange are questions that, to answer wisely, require ongoing scrutiny, understanding, and flexibility on the part of the people who interact with folks who experience challenges common to autism spectrum disorders.

National Day Outing

2007-07-08T14:22:00.000+08:00

Hey ppl!

It's about time to start planning for our next BK outing on National Day! As usual, I shall conduct a vote to decide where we'll go. Simply add your comments to this post, closing date is 14 Jul 2007. Feel free to suggest any alternatives ...

a) Sentosa - Beach volleyball, frisbee, cycling, blading, bumming
b) Pulau Ubin - cycling, walk around Chek Jawa
c) Marina South - kite flying, steamboat
d) East Coast Park - cycling, blading
e) Any other suggestions?

- Jianyun

2007 Q1 Budget Statement

2007-07-08T14:17:00.000+08:00

Hey folks,

2007 Q1 budget statement has been submitted to MYC Centeral Committee. We do have a tiny surplus, yeah! If you would like to view the statement, email me.

Regards,
Jianyun
Treasurer
BKTG 07-08

MYG Chair Shares ....

2007-07-01T23:51:00.000+08:00

Dear MYG volunteers,

After watching Transformers today, one quote from the movie has stuck with me: "No sacrifice, no victory". This quote resonated with me very strongly, as I reflect upon MYG's activities last month.

All the hard work put into the planning and preparations for ACID this year culminated with a very successful ACID 2007. Among many highlights, this year's committee experimented with a new initiative of grouping high support and low support needs trainees together. To me, that was an excellent idea, and in fact I thought that the outcome was great too. In any case, I always enjoyed attending ACID. For many of us, ACID might probably be a completely exhausting experience. Nonetheless, for me personally, that special touchy-feely sensation always runs through my body when I take a step back and appreciate how every drop of sweat (maybe even drop of tear in some cases?), every bit of hard work (and probably a lot of soft work too, developing the soft skills working together as a team?), every hour of sleepless nights (thinking about what can go wrong in ACID and trying to beat Murphy at his law game) just come together in a weekend of adrenaline rush for everyone involved. No sacrifice, no victory right?

Having the opportunity to be a part of Singapore's birthday celebrations preparation (though from quite a distance away) while gathering together as MYG to prepare something for MYG's birthday celebrations was a rather contemplative experience. As Singapore comes together to celebrate a very defining growth over the last 42 years, MYG is coming together after 35 years of existence in a period of redefining identity. As I ponder about this, I can't help but ask the perennial question: what does MYG mean to me? I reckon MYG means very different things to everyone of us but one thing remains clear, to me at least. Whatever MYG means to each of us, we all put in what our limits can allow and what our passions can drive. And I thought that the VA team did their best and put in their sacrifices, in spite of the many challenges, to put together a very eventful and enjoyable MYG Amazing Race. No sacrifice, no victory.

What sacrifice have I made for MYG today?

By the way, I thought Transformers was an excellent show =) No expectations, no disappointment, only satisfaction.

CheersDaniel

P.S. I started as a MYG volunteer with AMK and I have attended 3 ACIDs before this year's. Since coming back last year, I was helping out a bit at CW.

Neurofeedback

2007-07-01T11:07:00.000+08:00

I attended the seminar on neurofeedback recently, thanks to MYG and conducted by Spectrum Learning Pte Ltd (www.spectrumlearning.biz)

Neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback. So what then is biofeedback? It is biological signals which we don’t usually notice are measured and presented back so that one is consciously aware of them. With awareness, one can learn to control these biological signals. Control could be in the form of engaging the brain in customized activities.

Control = better regulation

The seminar focuses on EEG Biofeedback.

A search on the Internet helps to explain some of the terms.
- ElectroEncephaloGram (EEG) A diagnostic test which measures the electrical activity of the brain (brain waves) using highly sensitive recording equipment attached to the scalp by fine electrodes.

- EEG Biofeedback, also known as Neurotherapy and Brain Wave Therapy, is a non-invasive, sophisticated, computerized process for training in the self-regulation and normalization of brain waves after injury. It involves the use of monitoring devices that display information about the operation of a bodily function, for example, heart rate or blood pressure that is not normally consciously controlled.

So how does it benefit us? EEG biofeedback is able to help in
1. Modulation of levels of arousal regulation of sleep/wake cycle
2. Organisation of cognitive process
3. Normalisation of processing of sensory information
4. Inhibition of inappropriate motor responses
5. Management of moods and emotions
6. Organisation of memory

For autistic person, item 3 will definitely benefit them since they have a lot of “noise” in their sensory.

The assumptions underlying operant conditioning are that behavior
- produces consequences
- is a function of its consequences
- followed by positive consequences tends to be repeated
- followed by negative consequences tends to stop and how we behave in the future will depend on what those consequences are

If our actions have pleasant effects, then we will be more likely to repeat them in the future. If however, our actions have unpleasant effects, we are less likely to repeat them in the future.

All behaviors can be modified
- all complex behavior is learned, shaped, and subject to observable laws
- one can change behavior through rewards and punishment
- behavior is determined by the environment; i.e., determined by the consequences or anticipated consequences of that behavior
- some of what we learn is not the direct result of reinforcers but is rather the result of observing others and the consequences of their actions and modeling our behavior
- virtually all work behavior is operant i.e. it generates consequences in its environment and these consequences in part shape and control behavior

The reinforcers in neurofeedback
- When one produces the desirable brainwave profiles, he/she is rewarded and made to feel good.
- When one produces the undesirable brainwaves, there is no reward also.

Shaping involves
- breaking of complex tasks into basic steps
- arranging the basic steps in the proper sequence
- training each basic steps
- progressively train towards desired behavior

Modern day application
1. Attention deficit disorder
2. Depression and mood disorder
3. Substance abuse and addiction
4. Learning disorder
5. Chronic fatigue syndrome
6. Cerebral palsy
7. Hyperactivity disorder
8. Bipolar disorder
9. PMS
10. Obsessive-compulsive disorder
11. Anxiety & Post traumatic stress disorder
12. Myoclonic dystrophy
13. Epilepsy
14. Violence
15. Chronic pain
16. Head injury
17. Sleep disorders
18. Stroke
19. Autism
20. Dissociative disorder
21. Peak performance

With the maturity of neurofeedback and the advancement of technology, it is becoming more affordable and more accessible and that means more people will benefit from it.

-choon seng

Your attitude just might be my biggest barrier

2007-06-23T01:07:00.000+08:00

Hi,

Just want to share the following abstracted from an article “Your attitude just might be my biggest barrier” from Indiana Resource Center for Autism. Happy reading…

-choon seng

Behaviors always happen for a reason. The reasons may or may not be obvious to us. They do not simply “just happen” but may be a function of a situation, a communication partner, the message that is being sent, or even a physiological need. Every human being uses behavior to communicate. Even though most of us can speak and have the ability to understand and solve problems, we often rely heavily on behaviors to express our feelings. Many of the individuals with autism spectrum disorders we support may have limited or no speech to access when they want to be left alone, or are having a rough time. Instead, they “act out” as a way of telling us.

Individuals who have autism spectrum disorders or other disabilities are faced with many challenges. One of the challenges they may face are attitudes and misconceptions regarding their behaviors. Often behaviors are looked at as something to be fixed or eliminated rather than a method for expressing feelings or desires.

To overcome this barrier, we need to

- Understand that behavior is communication and that communication is behavior. It is impossible for anyone to “not communicate”. Every human uses behavior to communicate at one time or another.

- Understand the concept of labels and how they are perceived. It is true that we use “labels” to name behaviors but unfortunately labels cause us to miss the message the behavior may be communicating. Often we may dismiss the message of the behavior by saying, “Oh, they’re just doing that for attention seeking.” In many instances, the term “attention seeking” has become a way of “devaluing the needs of people and not taking them seriously”. Perhaps it would be a better option to consider why attention is desired. Is the only time the individual receives any “meaningful” conversation and attention after they have done something which resembles “misbehavior?” Could the individual be hurt, frightened, or frustrated and wanting to tell someone? Could the individual be lonely and simply want to be noticed?

Young children in school love to receive attention and be noticed. Adults also like to receive attention. When you have called someone “just to talk,” has anyone ever told you “you need to call another time when you have something meaningful to say?” Perhaps “attention seeking” behaviors are not always wrong.

Behaviors, sometimes called “self-simulation behaviors,” may also be sensory in nature. Individuals may engage in these behaviors when they are bored, frustrated, stressed, or need to “chill out.” Most of us resort to such sensory-type behaviors however our behaviors are not obvious. We wiggle in our seats, tap our feet, chew on erasers, hum tunes, and bite our nails, to maintain attention or to calm ourselves when feeling anxious. Often when the individual with disabilities uses “self-stimulation,” we decide that we should extinguish the behavior because it is inappropriate, or make the individual stand out as very different. Perhaps we feel uncomfortable with behavior and how it might reflect on us.

By labeling people’s behavior we often feel that we have the right to act on how the behavior affects us rather than on what the person doing it might be trying to communicate. If that’s the case, maybe we should look more closely at those situations when individuals engage in sensory (self-stimulation) behaviors and instead of simply telling them to “stop” ask ourselves, “Why?” or “How can I help?” or “Does the person need help?”

We can make changes to our thinking.

Rather than discussing the behavior incident reports that everyone already knows, begin to focus on the person’s history and personality in order to get a different perspective for why some behaviors may be occurring. Share positive information as freely as “negative” information is shared. Include the individual whenever possible to get their feedback. Build on the strengths instead of creating a curriculum where each individual “majors in their deficits.” Create supportive communities for everyone by listening to the behaviors, avoiding labels, and asking, “Why” or “What can I do to help?”

Concentration!

2007-06-18T22:57:00.000+08:00

That seems to be one of the hardest things to ask of our trainees. They tend to exhibit short span of concentration. Is it because people who are intellectually challenged have a lower concentration threshold and easily get restless? What causes them to lose concentration? Is it because they are not interested in the activities (boring/monotonous) that they are engaging in? Is it because they don't understand instruction (or we don’t understand them) and are not sure what is required of them in the activities? It can also be external factors such as hot/stuffy weather, non conducive environment, too noisy, too many movement/people?

How do we improve their concentration? Does doing jigsaw puzzle, beading, cross-stitch help or these tasks just make them more patient? Can one improve on concentration? Maybe by doing meditation, practicing taiji will help our trainees improve their concentration but how do we teach them? How do we get them understand, concentrate, learn and pick up meditation/taiji? That seem too challenging, we shall just focus on the tasks done during class. Maybe we can use apparatus to help them focus on their tasks... apparatus to narrow their views, to engage them in activities and don't let their eyes wander around. Maybe we can prepare our training aids to make the boring activities look more interesting? Say for example, if this trainee likes bright color and we are teaching him counting, we can use colourful cubes. Or if this trainee likes flower and we are teaching her time concept, we can improvise a clock with lots of flower on it. We can also improve on the external factors to help them concentrate better. For example, if the classroom is too hot or stuffy, get out of it and go to an open area with better airflow. Or if there are too many movements in the classroom, ask your trainee to do the task, back facing the crowd. What about playing some light, soothing music to enhance their concentration level?

Maybe we can communicate better using visual to help and give clear instructions to them so that they are not confused. Communication is a big topic and we will talk about it next time.

Meanwhile, ponder though the points discussed and share your insights =)

-choon seng

Malaysia Trip to Kluang

2007-06-16T02:30:00.000+08:00

Pat has kindly organised our annual trip to Malaysia.

Date : 21 July (Saturday)
Time : Estimated 6.45am - 10pm
Venue: Tropical Village (Mini theme park, leisure corner and playground), Organic Park, Coffee Powder Farm and Mushroom Farm & Shopping !
Fees: Estimated about $50 per person (subjected to confirmation)

GLs, Please confirm the attendance for this outing for your trainees, caregivers and volunteers by 20 June. (Pat has mentioned this to some of the caregivers previously)

All other volunteers not directly allocated to volunteers, please email me if you are interested to participate in this outing by 20 June.

(itinery is in the email!)

-Fan Han

Amazing Race next Saturday - 23rd June 2007

2007-06-16T02:28:00.000+08:00

Dear all,

23rd June 2007 (Saturday) will be the 1st VA outing of the year.

It will be an amazing race around Singapore.
The VA team has put in a lot of effort to put this event together so I do hope that all of you will join everyone in this amazing race ... It will be a good time to know other volunteers from other projects and make new friends.

Meeting place: space outside the Esplanade concert hall
Date: 23 June
Time: 2pm

Attractive prizes will be awaiting for you at the ending point.
Please do not drive as the ending point will not be at Esplanade.

GLs : Please collate attendance for your direct volunteers and send them to be ASAP before 19 June.

All other volunteers (regular or ad-hoc) please either drop me an email or sms me at 97623509. (Please do so before 19 June as well)

For those who cannot confirm the attendance, you are still welcome to join on the day itself. Just register then will do.

- Fan Han

thank you note

2007-06-12T08:42:00.000+08:00

Dear all,
The eventful ACID 2007 is over ! (please be patient with my long long thank you list!)

I am sure all those who have attended are still recuperating from the late nights etc ....
As we have told many of you previously, ACID camp is the most tiring and eventful part of being a BKTG/MYG volunteer .... For many, this might really be a lot more tiring than expected and all the fits, wetting + soiling of beds, striping of pants etc ... may not be what was expected as well ... If there is any feedback or comments that you will like to express ... feel free to drop me an email k ?

I want to take this email to express my thanks to all who were at the camp taking care of the trainees with all their heart and soul and would also like to apologise for some things that I forgot to mention to those individuals during the camp:

Our new Volunteers:-
Alfred & Stanley (Thanks so much for bathing Jimmy on the 1st night and also helping out !), Affiq (Thanks for babysitting our big baby ! I am sure you love him as much as we do now !), Alvin (Thanks for being with Weizhi all the time together with Jianyun & Soo Hui while I disappear off to do other things !), Chan Leong, Chan Keet, Daryl, Desmond, Ernie, Jeslin, Jiayi, Reihorng, Robert, Sean, Stanley, Sze Ee, Thye Chuan, Xiaoting, Yue Qi & Violet (Great Job in getting Siew Phang engaged in the activities ! We saw another side of him at camp), Yuting and Zixiong [All the others, thank you for taking care of the trainees ... I must admit I still cannot put a name to many faces (sorry abt that) but we all saw the tremendous efforts put in to take care of all the trainees and I must truly say that it was very well done ! Please feel free to join us in our saturday classes whenever you guys are free or after your A Levels !]

Our Ad-Hoc Volunteers:-
Gim Heng (thanks for always thinking of us and buying supper for all of us !), Huimin (Thanks for looking after Cheng Kwong alone most of the time .. sorry to have not added other ppl to share your load), Libei & Liqiu (Thanks for coming down, sorry that I didn't manage to get your attendance in for the ACID camp), Robin, Isabelle, Serping, Soo Hui and Zhuting (A big big thank you to the both of you for bringing your friends down for ACID otherwise we will never have been able to bring all of them down this year ! Thanks for fulfiling my wish ! *muacks*), Susan & Wencheng (coming down at night to stay awake while the rest sleeps), Hwee Seng aka Dusty and Wee Sing aka Elder (coming down especially to bathe the trainees), Eng Eng

And of course, our dear regular volunteers:-
Andy, Benjamin, Chay Lan, Daniel & June (Thanks for helping to take care of the low support group while doing your observations ! Appreciate both of your help !), Hwei Hwei, Jianyun, Kah Mun, Kah Yee (Thanks for doing Night duty with Isabelle and sorry for waking the both of you while we were clearing the mats), Kelvin, Choon Seng & Pat (Thanks for helping me take care of so many things !) and Simin

(Please forgive me if I missed out anyone .... )

Big thank you to the PJC folks for the exercise mats, I am sure those who slept on it all slept very well !!!!

All the best to PJC canoeing team for your competition and all the best to all JC2 students for your A levels !!!!

Enough of thank you(s), I really hope everyone had fun during the camp despite the lack of sleep etc ...

I will send out separate emails regarding Q2 rooster, amazing race (1st VA outing) on 23 June and the major outing to Malaysia on 21 July !!!!!

Zhuting & Soo Hui: Please do me a big favour by forwarding this email to those who came .... I had some problems sending it to them the other time. Also, this is BKTG's blog address : http://bktg-myg.blogspot.com/ .... Please feel to drop us messages at the blog !!!

See you all in class on the 30th June !
(p/s: Jiat Chow is away in US for conference till 30 June and I will be away from 22 - 30 June)

~fanhan

ACID camp 2007

2007-06-04T19:22:00.000+08:00

Just a kind reminder that ACID camp starts this Friday ....

Here are some details:

Event: ACID camp 2007
Venue: Pioneer JC
Date: 08 to 10 June
Meeting Time: 08 June, 7pm at Kembangan MRT. (Pls be punctual.)
Departure Time: 10 June, 1pm from Pioneer JC (ETA 1.40pm at Kembangan MRT)
Camp Fees: SGD $5 (Vols, pls pay to Jianyun on Fri. Soohui & Zhuting, pls collect and pass to us at PJC)

Zhuting to Collect: Yue Qi, Reihorng, Chan Keet, Robert, Yuting, Sean, Daryl, Zhuting, Robin
Soo Hui to Collect: Sze Ee, Violet, Zixiong, Jiayi, Alfred, Desmond, Xiao Ting, Alvin, Jeslin, Stanley, Thye Chuan, Chan Leong, Soo Hui, Huimin (Huiqi & Yiting are not coming)

Please check your emails for the programme list from the ACID committee, a map of PJC for those who are driving, to-bring list for the trainees (additional stuff to bring will be SLEEPING BAG) and the grouping for our trainees.

Also, John will not be able to fetch the trainees - Siew Phang, Ban Lee, Jee Ban and Sze Min on Friday. He will be picking the trainees up on Sunday 1.40pm at Kembangan MRT. For Siew Phang and Sze Min, please ask the parents to arrange to bring them down on Fri. We will arrange transport for Ban Lee and Jee Ban.

These are the people that we will be waiting for at the Kembangan MRT.
If your name is not here, please let me know else we will leave without you !

Fan Han
Andy
Ernie
Choon Seng
Jianyun
Affiq
Kah Mun
Patricia

Please note that our trainees are separated into 2 groups - Low support (High Functioning) & High support (Low Functioning). We will be paired with YCK trainees and CW (new project - Children's Wing, Children from MINDSville). For those who know Jane ... she will be in the same group as our trainees =)

p/s: The classroom do not have air-conditioning ...

See you all on Fri,
Fan Han

ACID or Acid?

2007-05-29T23:59:00.001+08:00

Do you know Annual Camp for the Intellectually Disabled (ACID) is something MYG trainees look forward? This is THE event that is in the back of the mind of some trainees. When I informed Weizhi's mother of the coming camp, she gave a definite YES, he is coming for the camp. She related a recent case where Weizhi's younger brother was going for a trip/camp and his brother used Weizhi's bag to pack his camping stuff inside. When Weizhi saw the bag, he was very excited thinking he himself is going for camp. He opened up the bag, saw the things don’t belong to him, took it out and put his stuff in. Ha ha ha.... this happen for a few times until the family gave up :P

And do you know ACID is something some volunteers dread to attend? It means they have to spend 2 sleepless night and 2 tiring days to take care of our trainees. Why is it so tiring? I shall not say too much, experience it yourself bah. At the end of the camp, some of them actually require a break to "recuperate"... especially for some where age is catching up and naturally it will take longer for them to recover. It is an acid test for these volunteers to see their resilience, endurance and commitment... survival of the fittest.

Nonetheless, despite the challenges faced by volunteers during the camp, they will still turn up for the camp and never give up. They know that the trainees enjoy it; they know that the caregivers need the break and they know that they will learn a lot of their trainees during the camp and from the sharing of knowledge with fellow volunteers. They will want to bring every trainee to the camp even if the volunteers’ turnout may be low... at least not for this year :)

ACID exists for our trainees, for our volunteers. Enjoy the camp & enjoy every moment!

-choon seng

24th Anniversary...

2007-05-15T22:01:00.000+08:00

It was our 3rd time visiting Jurong East Swimming Complex but it was the 1st time we are celebrating our anniversary there! The weather was kind to us, really suitable to have a dip in the water =) The trainees turnout were good, consider in the past going into the pool we were always low in attendance...

Every trainees really had fun.... sitting on the float going round the "canal", those more daring ones had a go on the slide and for some, just basically sitting in the wave pool, enjoying the wave, the jet spray and the sun it's good enough.

All of you who were present played a significant role in ensuring our trainees had fun. You ensured their safety were not compromised by following them closely and made sure they were not left alone. In fact, I think all of them could not swim... imagine how dangerous it would be to leave them alone, out of sight for just a split seconds in the pool! For some who don't know, we once lost Ban Lee (in a split seconds) for over an hour and he ended up in Tampines.

You ensured they did not feel out of place in the public and integrated them slowly with the rest. You made the public feel comfortable with our trainees and educated them these special people are just like anyone of us.

Last but not least, you gave the caregivers the assurance that they could leave their children in your care and their children would be well look after. You shown them that you looked into every details when you were with their children.

Keep it going my friends! Continue to show patience, love and be vigilant when you are with our trainees, especially in the public!

-choon seng

swimming cum lu-lianing

2007-05-13T22:59:00.000+08:00

Hiya wonderful people

Lo and behold Saturday was a day to be remembered - ahem ahem .

I would like to take the opportunity to thank our event planner hwei hwei and all the hunky / goregalicious volunteers who made the event a total success . I am utterly convinced that the parents are really appreciative for all the time and effort we spend on them. Thank you so much to one and all that came on Saturday .

And with accordance with bk tradition ,food does play a very big part of our volunteering careers , dinner at the infamous red light district was great but desert – that was something of a entire different league

Durains

Its sweet luscious creamy flesh . the strong yet pungent aroma that lingers in your fingers .its velvet like texture giving the consumer A total sensory experience even before it touches the lip. As soon as its flesh comes in contact with the buds on the tongue a seismic feeling a little less than an orgasm engulfs all your mind body and soul...

ALL good thing start with LETTER 'd'

durains
DIOR
diamonds
daniel

I shall not mention any more about my insatiable craving for THE ALL AND MIGHTY D .somethingS JUST MAKE DANNY EUPHORIC ....

Toodles ppl
daniel

Happy Birthday BKTG !!!!

2007-05-07T00:09:00.000+08:00

Happy Birthday BKTG !!!

7 May 1983 was the start of BKTG !

According to ancient records, BKTG was first formed in Oct 1982 with the aim of basically providing pre-school training to those people with intelluctual disability on the waiting list of the day school. However, a group of people with Intelluctual disability with behavioural problems who could not be admitted into MINDS' Schools was gradually included in the service ...

Then there was this point abt "Future Direction" .. It says ... "It is expected that in the near future, the project will serve mainly those clients with behavioural problems. As such, volunteers would have to exercise more conviction and initiative, especially in the planning stages, it is forseen that the main area of service would be in the training of basic self-care skills."

True enough .. we are in the future from 1986 and serving clients of those nature !!!

Treasures you will find as we dig through the store ...

-Fan Han

1-Day Kota Tinggi Firefly Trip

2007-05-02T20:04:00.000+08:00

Dear all,

The firefly trip is up and ready to go! =) It'll be a trip with the volunteers and trainees from Terra Hope; tentative date is 31st May (Vesak Day). Should be fun and a great chance to meet NEW PEOPLE ;)

Or just go with me lah...pls...? :D

Have a wonderful week ahead!
Huizhen

*****************************************************************

Heys all,

TH will be orgainising a 1 Day trip to Kota Tinggi for a firefly cruise trip. Along the way, we will also be visiting fruit plantation and Ostrich farms. The trip also inclusive of a seafood lunch and dinner at a local restaurant.. wow! Great Lobang at a good price of S$69 only!! (Details and itenary as below)

We need at least 30 ppl to make up this trip..coz the organiser need min # of ppl..

We are inviting all projects to join us for this 1 day event..It should be great fun!!

If you all are planning to bring any trainees along..do let me know..I may be bringing some trainees along as well...:)

Do let me know by this week..Thanks! !

Cheerzzz
Ken

1 Day Pengarang, Fruit plantation, Ostrich Farm & Fireflies Tour

0730hrs Assemble at designated venue and proceed to Woodlands Customs for clearance
0900hrs Breakfast and shopping for maltose biscuit and local products
Proceed to Pengarang
Visit Ostrich farm
1300hrs Seafood lunch at Pengarang
Visit Fruit Farm
Proceed to Kota Tinggi
1830hrs Dinner at local restaurant at Kota Tinggi
1945hrs River Cruise - Kota Tinggi River for fireflies
2100hrs Proceed back to Singapore

Time is Estimated and subject to changes, sequence of itinerary subject to changes

Rate (with holiday Surcharge):
Adult: S$69 nett Child: S$50 nett (3-11years old)

Prices include (Min 30pax):
- Singapore registered 40 seater air-con coach
- Malaysian tour guide
- 1 Seafood Lunch and 1 Dinner
- $10,000 insurance coverage and $500 medical expenses
- *Ostrich Farm Entrance Fees
- Boat ride for fireflies.
- 1 free seat for organiser

*If don't want Ostrich Farm, replace with shopping at Jusco before proceeding to Pengarang.
There will be less $5 for the Ostrich Farm entrance fees ie Adult: S$64 nett Child: S$45 nett (3-11years old)

Prices Exclude : S$1 Driver tips and S$1 Guide tips per person (Compulsory)

A place like home...

2007-04-16T18:54:00.000+08:00

After reading Huizhen's very chim post, I was inspired to post an entry (as a break from 孟浩然、李白、杜甫...) Haha... Yeahz... I'm currently mugging for my examinations.

I was first introduced to BKTG through Robyn (TPJC classmate). I will always remember how I got used to the place and everyone there in less than a month! I remember how Andy, Patricia and the rest made me feel welcomed into the big family. I've since felt comfortable there, even without Robyn as company.

I remember Andy asking me, "他这样你会怕吗？", when I saw Boon Peng throwing tantrums. I said "不会". As time goes by, I got to know the trainees better, their habits especially. By then you would probably realised how cute and lovable some trainees can be, even Boon Peng.

Later on, I think it was last year (time passes so fast that I lost track), I was roped in to help plan BKTG's Camp (actually, only the programmes). The process was enjoyable, working with Zhuting, Soohui, Robyn and Doreen. The camp would not have been successful if not for the "seniors" guiding us along! =D Through the camp, I learnt a lot of things that I could not have learnt in textbooks, or planning school events.

I've been absent from BKTG activities for quite some time now, coz I was put in charge of my school's biggest event, and had to juggle with my studies at the same time. I nearly died from the workload and stress, literally. Haha... But I'll be back in action after my exams end (4th May)!

Meanwhile... Remember to miss me every now and then!~ =P

I'LL BE BACK! =P

-Yi Wei-

Re: Next Outing - Labour Day

2007-04-15T15:15:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

Due to the "overwhelming" response (8 votes so far), I shall close the poll and announce the results - Beach bumming at Sentosa!

In view of the Firefly outing by TH(?), I shall bring forward the Beach Bumming to Labour Day (1 May). Considering that Labour Day is a day to free us from the drudgery of school / work, we shall celebrate it with tequilla and hammocks by the beach. For those who prefer sweating it out under the sun, there's always frisbee and beach volleyball.

Date: 1 May 2007
Meeting Time: 8.30am
Meeting Place: Seah Im Hawker Center (near bus interchange)
Mode of transport: Sentosa Express, $3
Beach: Siloso http://www.sentosa.com.sg/explore_sentosa/beaches/siloso_beach.html
Pls bring: sunscreen, swimsuit, bathing stuff, change of clothes, bikinis (optional)
Point of Contact: Jianyun

If you have any of the following, can u pls bring it?
- Frisbee (Jianyun)
- Beach volleyball
- Beach Mats / Sarong / Picnic Mats
- Hammock (anyone?)

Any guests (bf / gf / other MYG groups) are welcome and they are "strongly encouraged" to contribute to our beach bum fund - drinks, tidbits etc.

For those lazypigs among us (u know who u are), pls arrange your own morning calls. Alternatively, you may wish to meet us at Vivo for lunch around noon.

Jianyun

Growing to Learn

2007-04-15T00:16:00.000+08:00

It's already the new financial year, and all anticipated changes have now been set well in motion. Perhaps from the lack of so much as a kind notice from slipping Time, my mind has yet to keep up with the exciting pace of new projects and responsibilities. But this night as I sit around awaiting the sleepy bug (which tarries with an attitude...), I am given the opportunity to reflect on all the good things that are in store; and I am still amazed at what has become possible for my life, if not for one simple (I would have used the word 'innocuous', but then I would be acting against the preferences of my co-VA :p) thought, on which I took action.

The meaning of volunteering for me has evolved rather drastically within such a short timespan. There are levels of insight that would forever have remained closed to me if I had never embarked on this new experience against my most skeptical notions. I think everyone who has heard my beginnings as a volunteer would know that I didn't always use to believe that causing one weak semblance of a change (which could be so easily erased like vapour in the wind) would make a difference. I wanted to change the world, and to think I didn't realize it were actually a result of many, many tiny steps put together...

I get caught up in what I take on, all the same. And this life has become so much the better for it :) Growing up is more difficult than one imagines. You first have to acknowledge the fact that you're immature, that you truly do not know enough. And then it's another difficult process of forcing yourself to view events beyond the veil of your emotions. Unreliable, shifting sensations that usually have no bearing on the external situation.

I am growing to understand, that in order to learn, you first have to mature to the stage whereby you are capable of learning. It's a humbling realization, that only the wise do the learning. Because of the courage involved, the effort needed, and the discomfort evoked. And in this way, among numerous others, our beloved trainees have taught me well. They're endearing like that (my curent in-phrase that absolutely has to appear on every piece of writing associated with me :D).

The next time you detect a bias that you hold on to, slow down a while. Are you truly repelled by the inadequacy of a circumstance, or have you failed to grasp the intricacies within? You don't have to subscribe to everything that logic compels against your fancies, but at least, one could strive to be cognizant of that decision :)

Huizhen

Next outing!

2007-04-08T22:47:00.000+08:00

Hey ppl,

This is my first blog entry (in BK blog as well as in my life). Yes, there is a compelling reason why I'm here .. that is to plan for the next outing!

Firstly, thanks to Daniel for organising the fun and healthy tree top walk. It definitely justifies the goreng pisang I had after that. It's amazing how big the turnout was at *7.30am*.

For the next outing, it'll be on 31 May (Vesak Day) as I'm not free before that. Whoever is keen to take up the Labour Day slot can go ahead.

As a democratic organiser, the venue shall be decided via voting. Pls comment on this post by 30 Apr, indicating your preference. And the options are:

a) Cycling @ Pulau Ubin (whole day)
b) Beach bumming at Sentosa (morning) - beach volleyball, frisbee
c) Fly kite at Marina South (evening) and maybe steamboat?

Alright, the polls are now open ..

Jianyun

maiden walk

2007-04-07T01:38:00.000+08:00

Hiya wonderful bktgians & invited guest

It is your friendly neighborhood va writing this entry . actually it more of a thank you note than a blog entry but like wadever! .i would like to take this opportunity to personally thank each and everyone who came for the HSBC tree top walk , it being a public holiday and all .it really means a lot to me.

EVERYTHING about today was great -

the company
the route
the bridge
the vegetarian food ( for me at least )
the movie ( sponsored by our in house chn teacher Jessica ) TMNT mind u
the deserts ( after losing all those calories I have to put them back on how else will I maintain my figure hehehehe)

I really enjoyed myself it being my maiden walk to the tree top walk. yipee i a tree top virgin no more.... The conversation we had very great all those who were invovled would know wad I mean .- educated crap with huichen around every conversation moves a notch higher

Thank you so much ken ( th chairmeh ) ,Daniel ( myg chair meh ) smart ppl are always know as daniels, jiaty chowi, fan hanny ,hwei hweiy , kel kel , jian smartypants , ka arty farty , hui psyco , ja-si-ca & fren , fiq-o and yi ting and of cos a special thanks go to SAMUEL DANIEL who kept his complainings to a minimal.

With load of love
Signing off /toodles
.: [ d@n!eL ] :.

MYG Inter-Project Challenge Trophy 2007 Overall Champion: BKTG !!!

2007-04-01T22:42:00.000+08:00

Dearest BKTGians!

At last, after three years of all the ‘so-near-yet-so-fars’ and waiting…
We are finally the proud and rightful winner of MYG Challenge Trophy!! =)

Yesterday’s Inter-Project Captain’s Ball Competition saw us claiming 2nd spot for the competition and eventually got BKTG crowned as the overall champion to lift the Challenge Trophy for the 1st time since its inception four/five years ago J

(FYI RO has been the challenge trophy winner back-to-back for the past three years)

On top of that of seeing BKTG becoming the new power house in the MYG volunteer sports arena, this sweet victory also shows our dynamic team-spirit and cohesiveness as a team and family!

For Choon Seng and me, this is truly a timely and wonderful occasion for both of us to gloriously “retire” and step down as your bosses…

With this achievement, both of us want to thank and dedicate this milestone in BKTG’s history to all you hunks and babes who contributed to this great success:

* Wencheng, Jianyun, Kelvin, Kah Yee, Robin, Zhuting , June, Jinrui, Esther, Simin (& Simin’s sister) – thank you for all the sweat, the spectacular jumps, smart passes, brilliant interceptions & steady catch – thanks for playing your hearts out and taking all the knocks on the courts for us! J

* Patricia, Jiat Chow, Fan Han, Daniel, Huizhen, Wendy & Kah Mun – thank you for being there to support & cheer for our players – your presence matters! J

* Daniel, Huizhen & Kah Mun – and thank you for helping out the VA Team to be the match officials that contributed to the competition’s success J

* Patricia – thank you for being our Da Jie Da and “medic”, tending to Jianyun when she was being knocked down & stretched off.

* Jiat Chow – thank for being not just our goal-catcher, but also standing faithfully behind to support our goal-catchers to ensure their safety J

* Teck Choon, Siew Peng, Glen, Claudia, Huiping, Hwei Hwei, Serene, Shuzhen, Susan, Wee Choo , Jenny , Siok Cheng, Bing Yuan, Nian Jie, Isabelle, Lily, Eleanor, Fui Kien, Dusty & Wee Sing (Elder) – thank you for being there to play for us for the past fours years – you definitely have helped to play a big part in building up the great team that we have today! J

Lastly…

Though this thanksgiving is from both of us, I want to take this opportunity to personally thank CHOON SENG my “ex” co-chairperson for being a great fellow-leader, a diligent fellow-servant, a caring big brother, a patient & loyal friend to me…. Thanks, Seng! It has certainly been one of my greatest blessings serving and growing with you for the past three good years as we go through our ups and downs at BKTG…
You’re simply wonderful, bro! J

And as a closing, Choon Seng and I would like to urge all you hunks & babes – whether the seniors or the newbies, to continue to give all your support to BKTG by rendering your service faithfully to the new committee headed by Jiat Chow & Fan Han J

Let’s make it another huaty and fruitful year for BKTG together!!

Ooooooooh HUAT AH!!

Yours sincerely
Andy & Choon Seng
(Your bosses no more :P)

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Flag Day for Special Olympics Singapore

2007-03-29T13:51:00.000+08:00

Hi people ...

We will be participating in the following event :

Event: Special Olympics Singapore Flag Day
Date: 05 May 2007
Time: 8.30am to 1.00pm

We will be bringing the following trainees along:
1. Ailing
2. Keng Yew
3. Siew Phang
4. Wei Xiong
5. Wu Lin
6. Timothy
7. Weizhi

Volunteers, please do let me know if you are interested in going for the flag day by 6 April 2007.
You can either email me or sms me.
Please provide me with your NRIC no. if you are going ! =)

-Fan Han

BKTG AGM & Annual Camp (16 to 18 Mar 2007)

2007-03-23T22:47:00.000+08:00

BK camp has always been one that I enjoyed ...

With the previous night as the AGM, volunteers have the chance to gather and exchange thoughts ... There was food and games beside the AGM itself ... Dinner was cooked by Pat & Serene !! (Pat: Thanks for cooking the curry ! Yummy !) Games were ranging from Nintendo to Poker Cards to Mahjong !!! (Choon Seng: Thanks for bringing the Nintendo !)

This year ... we presented certificate of appreciation to the outgoing committee for their hard work over the past 1 year and also certificate of appointment to the incoming committee ... a big thank you to all the volunteers in the past 1 year !
Everyone was good on the friday night and slept early in 4 separate rooms ...
The next morning .. there were really a lot of "interesting" stories .... oops ! Can't share them with all of you here .... =)

There are also the healthier ones who woke up early for jogs & walk ... and the lazier ones like me ... who just sleep and sleep .. haha !

Programme for the camp was great ... the messy newspaper game was back with more MESS !!! There were simple station games (bowling, basketball etc ...) and the costume dress-up competition ....
I was glad to see that both the volunteers and trainees enjoy the programmes ...

The weather was good on the 2nd day to accommodate us at the swimming pool ! Volunteers played "Monkey", trainees played with the slide and this time round, Ban Lee enjoyed the slide very much ... Weizhi obviously enjoyed the pool as he could jump as much as he want !!! (Thanks to Timothy's swimming trunks .. if not ... )

Well ... at the end of swimming ... Daniel and the rest ganged up to start a new tradition of pouring coke on the incoming chairpersons .. Jiat Chow & I became literally "SWEET" !!! Oh my god !

Here, I would like to say a BIG THANK YOU to the following people (pls do not faint at the long list but it was the teamwork tht made the camp successful):

Camp committee, Soo Hui, Yi Ting, Hui Qi & Huimin .. thank you for organising the camp despite your exams on the following Monday ! I hope all of you did well for it ...
Patricia for taking care of all our stomach !!!!
Choon Seng for taking care of all the trainee and logistic issues.
Wee Sing (Elder), Hwee Seng (Dusty) and all the other guys in BK for bathing our trainees .... =)
JianYun, Gim Heng, Nian Jie & Daniel for staying up the whole night looking after our dear Boon Peng who finally went to sleep at 6am !
Eng Eng for baking the nice nice cakes ! (YUM !)
Andrea, my dear da jie for coming down ! =)
And of coz ... all the volunteers who were present at the camp - Andy, Chay Lan, Little Xian Zheng, June, Jenny, Siok Cheng, Nian Jie, Choon Seng, Pat, Benjamin, Hwei Hwei, Wee Sing, Eng Eng, Andrea, Hwee Seng, Jian Yun, Gim Heng, Kah Mun, Kah Yee, Ser Peng, Jiat Chow, Wee Choo, Daniel, Kelvin & Simin

Anyone interested in organising the camp next year ??

- Fan Han

My new trainee...

2007-03-23T12:36:00.000+08:00

He was onced considered difficult to handle (especially after what we witnessed during his time with EP) and there was extensive discussion, debate & assessment to decide whether to let him join us. Well that's history already...

During the camp, it was the first time I took him. He started making sound, jumping, rubbing his ears to create sensation, scratching his wound until it bleed, traits of a ASD person. But well, he understood ground rules once they were set!

No jumping indoor, he knew it although sometimes he would need reminder but who don't need reminder :) We could see him enjoying the jump... leaping so high reaching the sky! It is exhaustive jumping this way & by evening he was totally exhausted if not for some chocolate, he would have fallen flat. On ground rules, he was told him I would slap his hands when he was caught scratching. At the end of the camp, the frequency of him scratching reduced but when he did it, he would just put out his hands to be slapped :p That's what we call negative reinforcement.

We found that he like arcade very much. Twice, he sneaked into the arcade sitting in the Daytona machine. Maybe next time, we could have a competition.

Afterall, he is not that bad & I dare say he is improving. That's the challenge for me in the coming year! So what's yours?

-choon seng

PS: Fyi, throughout the camp, we are correcting his behavior of scratching his wound till it bleed. Also, do you know, he slept next to Phang Wei. Before he fell asleep, he was creating alot of noise & yet Phang Wei didn't react. Instead Phang Wei was laughing away... that's amazing.

Hottest Event !

2007-03-12T23:39:00.000+08:00

BKTG Annual Camp is just around the corner !

Volunteers who are coming down for the event, please remember to bring swim wear & sleeping bag !!!!

For those who have not heard about it (very unlikely!), here goes:

Fri Night (16/03) - Volunteer's night cum AGM
Sat & Sun (17/03 & 18/03) - Annual Camp

Location : Aloha Loyang

For exact details ... do call us !!!!

=) Fan Han

CNY celebration 3 Mar 07

2007-03-04T23:59:00.000+08:00

Hi there!

We definitely missed your presence for the event. Check out some of the photos : )

Siew Phang & Ban Lee arrived early to help decorate the place...

Thanks Daniel for being so spontanteous by leading the sing-a-long....

We done handicraft to decorate the place... its amazing to see Si Min so young handling a few trainees @ one go... Good work, Si Min!

The moment we have been waiting for.... Lo Hei

So don't miss our next major activity.... BK Camp on 17-18 Mar ; )

-choon seng

Big Brother(BB)/Da Ge(大哥) says....

2007-02-26T23:43:00.000+08:00

Ha Ha Ha.... yes BK has a BB now!

When did it happen? ;) Every era/generation in BK history, a BB or Big Sister(BS)/Da Jie (大姐)or both is born. There are many undisputed BB/BS in the past and can you name them? So what do you think are the attributes/traits of a BB/BS? Age/Seniority/... And what's expected of him/her from the rest?

I believe having someone associated with such a "title" does show the family spirit in BK... keep it going little brothers & sisters :) Waiting for the next upcoming BB/BS (下一个接班人！）

PS: BB/BS will progress to "elderly" (长老）then... ha ha ha...

- Choon Seng

WY2006/2007 coming to a close

2007-02-25T10:05:00.000+08:00

WY2006/2007 is coming to a close. It's also the time of the year where we BKTGians wind down and celebrate the hard work we've put in for the past year with our CNY celebration on 3rd Mar and BKTG camp on the 17th of Mar.

I would like to take this opportunity to extend my heart-felt appreciation to all volunteers, young and old, for making BKTG a HAPPENING place. A big salute to all our volunteer leaders, Andy, Choon Seng, Fan Han, Benjamin, Huizhen, Serene, Wee Choo & Patricia; thanks for your valuable leadership. Special thanks to all our senior volunteers, Hwei Hwei, Yeow Cheong, Fui Kien, Wee Sing, Siew Peng, Teck Choon & Claudia; thank you for staying the course. And thanks to Kah Yee and Isabelle for the time and effort in taking care of Group A trainees.

WY 2007/2008 will be a year of special significance. There will be new initiatives, a new committee and a new breed of young and attractive volunteer leaders like Jianyun, June, Kah Yee & Daniel. BKTG will be a stronger project and more importantly, BKTG will become a more HAPPENING place. Let us work together to open a new chapter for BKTG. Let's huat!

JC

P.S. Daniel, this should stop you from complaining that I didn't contribute any posts. And I should get bonus pts for starting this blog and for playing an active role in commenting to posts =P You still owe me a post for our Chinatown outing; make it a good one, yah =P

2007-02-21T23:59:00.000+08:00

I would like to use this opportunity to say a Big Thank You to Choon Seng & Jian Yun !!!!

Though I started the ball rolling but I must admit that I never had the time to complete them !
The trainee files are almost all completed by the 2 of them !
We will try our best to complete all the files before the next FY !!!

Do take your time to read and go through the files !
There are really a lot of "treasures" inside them !

-Fan Han

speech therapy needed!!!

2007-02-21T23:45:00.000+08:00

Yo guys,

do u know the trainee that can jump the highest? well.... isn't it too trivial? of course Weizhi ;-)

BUT do u know he can't jump when he is 10 yrs old? (he is born in 1988... so you do your sum how old is he now).... was it because of the activities he engagged in at Special school or during his early days with EP? i think both do play a part! so never underestimate what you can help our trainees...

now the challenge! how to maintain the speech capability of our trainees.... it has been mentioned repeatedly that alot of them are losing their speech :(

Just to name a few Keng Yew, Wulin, Boon Peng, Ban Lee...so if you do have any ideas/thoughts/programmes to help in this area.... just share with us K? you never know it might just meet our objectives.

-choon seng

PS: when you have time next time, do read through your trainee's file and you will unearth more things :)

August 2000....

2007-02-17T00:13:00.000+08:00

.... that was the time Mr Ong join BK through Joseph :-)

I still remember taking care of Tua Tee (some of you might remember), for the benefit of the rest, he is down syndrome, late 30s, no verbal comm, understand hokkien, very small-build... i still remember he didn't response much to me and basically we just walk around the compound .... very much like Jee Ban.

there was little development for him and frankly, it can be quite disappointing for someone new to people with intellectual disability ... and discouraging as well ... Tua Tee ultimately quit BK because of violent conduct at home and he was brought to IMH ... i remember visiting him there twice... the condition there was bad... the only comfort i gain was during the visits, though he is expressionless... he did seem to understand what i am telling him... but now i completely lost touch of him.... just hope things are fine with him!

Sometimes i wonder how much impact we can have on our trainees... the growth may not seem significant over the years.... but it is the companionship/love from their closed ones that really have an effect on them ... as well as on ourselves...

looking at BL.. i can't help but wonder how much difference of a person he would be if he was to stay with his family instead of being placed in the nursing home? he definitely would have achieved as much as anyone in GrpA if he has the family support.... he was there for many many years (was put in the home because of violent conduct)....

Are they being understood? What triggered the violence for both of them?

... think it is the lack of understanding and the inability of expressing themselves.... if ppl are able to understand/empathise their needs (being more tolerance and patience -> more public education) and provide proper guidance/training (the existence of BK with your presence) to facilitate them to express themselves, i believe the violent behaviour would have greatly reduced ler...

-choon seng

Secret revealed..

2007-02-14T11:14:00.000+08:00

Hi guys!

Yes, i am back from my trip. Gifts? Well, even though i was on a budget trip, i had saved and scrimped so that i could bring some little gifts for all of you...Touch? Better be :-) But i guess you guys might be disappointed though, its tada....CHEWING GUM from China. Everyone will be given a pack except trainess :( . There are spearmint, peppermint, orange and lemon flavours for you guys to choose. No advanced booking is accepted, its on "first come, first serve" basis. I apologised if any of you guys does not like chewing gum. Those are all i have :)

On the other hand, i am glad that BKTG has its own blog! Its so cool and i can't help wanting to write an entry when i knew about it just a while ago. I think it is a good idea for us to share our thoughts, get feedbacks and encouragements. This blog will definately bring us a step closer to each other.

A secret to share which i think i had shared it with Huizhen. Tada, here it goes: Initially, when i browsed through MINDS Youth Group website, i had taken an interest in EP and i remembered CLEARLY indicating my choice to volunteer with EP when i filled up the volunteer's application form. On the second day, Huizhen messaged me and suggested to meet me to introduce their project which i thought was EP (No project group name was mentioned). I met up with Huizhen and Andy. Tada..."Welcome to BKTG...Thank you for your interest. Want to join us for ACID camp?" Something like that..Wops, i thought they are from EP, on considering the time and effort that Huizhen and Andy had come to meet me and also on the account of the FREE Burger King meal, i had decided to keep my mouth shut about EP and politely answered and questioned about BKTG. Tada..i was officially a volunteer with BKTG since that day. So please pardon me if you caught me glancing at EP during BKTG session. Haha, just kidding. On a serious note, I have never regretted joining BKTG. Guess, it is all fated :)

See ya guys soon.

Cheers,
June :)

BKTG - A new era

2007-02-12T17:00:00.000+08:00

It has been a pretty exciting past 1 year for BK with many new faces joining us... Chay Lan, June, Daniel, Huizhen, Bingyuan, Nianjie, Joanna, Felicia, Kah Yee, Gim Heng, Simin, Wendy, Jinrui, Jessica, Priscilla...

And for the new year, things are definitely looking positive with Jiat Chow, Fan Han leading BK. They do have a lot of plans for BK... so I hope all of you can come forward & lend them your support... I am optimistic that it will even be a better year for BK...

Ooooo....Huat ah...

-choon seng

Gone but not lost

2007-02-12T16:25:00.000+08:00

How time flies ... i am gonna be done with school this May. YES!!! Graduating soon! Unless my screw comes loose one day and decide to overstay in campus. =P Meantime, looking for my next full-time job already ... keeping my fingers, toes & whatever crossable crossed. =P

L@@king forward to seeing you guys in May ... and Ah Ban, Baby Peng, Timothy and all our trainees! Missed the P.E. sessions in Towner, especially the basketball shootings! Still running these days to keep fit, though I hope to run away from life. Duh! *shakes the tot outta my head* Ok, maybe we should train hard for the next StandChart & do our recruiting simultaneously while sweating it out. Hahaha. Imagine a contingent (alright, a mini one lor) of BKTG runners ... WOW! Work hard, play hard, volunteer hard! :)

Leave a kopi-&-tea duty slot for me this end May, pppppllllllssssss...

Wee Choo

Imagine

2007-02-12T11:21:00.000+08:00

Funny how when I'm caught up with work and assignments, writing catches up with me. Which means I produce written material compulsively, and I grab every chance to unleash :p But really, you guys inspire me :D

The atmosphere at BK is now so much different than my first impression. Was it me who changed, or you? Perhaps we all did, and I am glad it was so ;) This sense of belonging definitely did not come without conscious effort. So thank you, Andy and Choon Seng (and every of you long-timers, but you know, I have to pay certain respects to secure a cushy time ahead), for having believed in the cause. I am here (and happy to be!) because you guys held out. But you know what keeps me here, the gossip :D No, actually I can't put a finger to it, because 'wonderful' is a gestalt of emotions that cannot be properly deconstructed.

And I am confident that the upcoming leadership will bring us to greater heights yet. But I do not aspire great ambitions for BK, because I feel that improvement is not merely a set of more outstanding protocol. Change has to be meaningful, and we sometimes overlook its simplicity. No matter, I am excited, even as I am apprehensive, because astute leadership is the reason we place our trust (*hint!*).

I know I write in very serious tones, but believe me, every bit of it is meant to be lighthearted sharing :))

Huizhen

danny boy's post

2007-02-12T02:47:00.000+08:00

BK was the best gift my dearest friend hidayah gave to me and in short BK has been the best thing that happened to me . though it was a bumpy ride at first not knowing how to deal with the trainees it has been great fun working with them. Thanks to the patience of the senior volunteers ( in this context I mean anyone who joined BK before me ) and the love they have showed towards me , I have learned and benefited a lot from you amazing people.

I feel ever so welcomed each time I come to BK . the smiles I see on the trainees face each time I come is one of the motivating factors that draws me to BK week after week . – A little insight about me ( I totally hate traveling and walking long distances ) but now it became such a norm for me that I don’t even realize how fast time flies during the horrid train rides from boon lay to towner garden. Another reason that keeps me coming back is the volunteers , for me personally I don’t think we are JUST volunteers we are so much more than that WE ARE A FAMILY . I really cant describe how much you people mean to me . I know for a fact that The love you shower upon me and the way you treat me is legitimate and can never be a lie . you peeps are just so sweet like sugar coated honey pops.

And I would like to take this chance to express gratitude to everyone who had helped me and adviced me during my rough patch and for tickling my mind to think about life and the way/ path I am heading to/down and for shopping with me and encouraging me to lead a healthier lifestyle and also for teaching me the importance of saving money ( which I am hopeless at..)

I also promise to organise more under $20 outings for the voluteers . we must be in our best when we help our trainees >< size="5">( i secretly mean often ) we should go out and have fun and return HOME after doing so ( directed to jiatchow we have beds at HOME for a reason)....

thank you darlings .... you all dont know how much you mean to me

AND I REQUEST A CHANGE OF PICTURE youknoe why COS I AM NOT IN IT

i will try posting pictures up here soon ( i miss my mummy and my digicam)

and YES the treetop walk is still on and yes i am gonna walk the walk and tell ya all about it

I'll be back! =p

2007-02-12T02:38:00.000+08:00

Yoz! Wow... going high-tech liao arhz?! Haha... I've been with BKTG for eh? How long? Can't remember already... Was pulled in by Robyn actually.

Have not been to BKTG for ages. I was in charge of my school week (7th - 8th Feb). Even now when the event's over, I still have a lot of bits and pieces to clear up. Furthermore I've been lagging in my studies coz of the school week too. BKTG, do wait for me yahz! Haha...

Juz a very short post bahz... Tml still got school worx! Hope to see you all around nxt time I go back!

Love,
Yi Wei (毓薇)

2007-02-06T12:54:00.000+08:00

Hi Hi ...

This shall be the 1st post for the BKTG blog !
Time flies and we are in the era of blogging !!!!

This blog was set up in the intention of providing a space for the volunteers (senior or new) to share their experiences at BKTG ... =p

So .. I shall share my experiences ...

I started in BKTG when I was 17 … senior volunteers still remember me in my Cedar Girls’ School Uniform running around while we had classes … As I have shared with many before ..joining BKTG is one of the most important part of my life !

Through the years when I joined as a teenager without my parents by my side, the senior volunteers provided a lot of guidance; not only in taking care of trainees but also in taking care of myself ! The things that I learn from them are remarkable ! During that period of time, I found myself a Lao Ma (Teck Yen) & Da Jie (Andrea)!!! Now that they have moved on to a new phase of their life, I still appreciate the fact that all of us do keep in contact once in awhile !!!

After disappearing for a few years due to my studies and other personal reason, I returned to BKTG in 2005 as a working adult. HaHa ^^

Things were different with a lot of new faces, young volunteers ! I was quite glad that a couple of senior volunteers are still around !!!!

For a moment, I realized how time flies and how much I have grown through the years with the help of BKTG.

A big hug and big thanks to all the volunteers in the past & present ! ^^

-Fan Han -