In this short Q&A, Andrew Bates (Children’s Occupational Therapist), shares his experience of being a Breathe Magic Trainer on the Breathe Magic Intensive Therapy Programme in 2019.
Why did you want to become a Breathe Magic Trainer?
At the time, I was studying a BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy full time at London South Bank University and heard about Breathe Magic from my fellow students. I was interested in working with children and young people and loved the idea of using magic to achieve a clinical outcome. An opportunity came up to volunteer as a Breathe Magic Trainer and I signed up immediately.
What experience did you build by volunteering your time across the 10-day intervention?
The experience I gained on the programme was invaluable. Not only did I receive training on the anatomy and physiology of the upper limb, but I was also taught how to complete standardised assessments and carry out evidence-based interventions for children and young people living with hemiplegia.
What did you do on a day-to-day basis?
In the morning, the team met to discuss the previous day and plan for the day ahead. The children then arrive, and we started therapy immediately. Rehab is built into the whole day, so as soon as the children walk through the door, we challenge them to use both hands together. As a Breathe Magic Trainer, you are responsible for working with 1-2 children throughout the day, helping them prepare for the final show by practicing their magic tricks. There is also an opportunity for play and functional skill practice, such as dressing, toileting and feeding.