Hawaii Pacific University hosts Go Baby Go event to support local keiki

HONOLULU (KHON2) — Hawaii Pacific University’s (HPU) Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program is gearing up for an exciting series of events in early October, highlighted by the “Go Baby Go” event.

This initiative, part of a national movement, aims to provide modified ride-on cars for local keiki with disabilities, helping them gain mobility and enjoy playtime with their peers.

The event is set for Friday, October 4, 2024, from 12:30 to 3:00 PM at HPU’s Graduate College of Health Sciences lab. Families and children will come together with HPU students from occupational therapy, physical therapy, and engineering to customize up to five cars, tailored to meet each child’s unique needs.

Local media are invited to join; for more details, please reach out to Gregory Fischbach.

“Go Baby Go is a fantastic way to mālama our local keiki, giving them independence and joy,” said Dr. Tracey Recigno, the program director and assistant professor. “It’s about more than just mobility; it’s about bringing our community together. Our students feel honored to be part of this journey with the families.”

Originally started by Professor Cole Galloway at the University of Delaware, the Go Baby Go movement has grown globally.

These modified cars allow children with mobility disabilities to explore their surroundings, which is essential for their cognitive, social, and motor development.

Leading up to the main event, HPU students will engage in hands-on activities to deepen their understanding of assistive technologies.

On Thursday, October 3, they’ll adapt electronic toys for children with disabilities from 1:00 to 2:00 PM at the Graduate College of Health Sciences lab.

Later that day, from 2:45 to 5:00 PM, students will explore adapted gaming technologies at HPU’s eSports Arena and visit the nearby Makerspace to learn about 3D-printed assistive devices.

Additionally, on Wednesday, October 2, HPU’s OTD program will partner with Shriners Children’s Hospital in Oahu for Camp Ho‘omana, the first-ever camp for children with congenital hand differences.

This event will take place from 2:00 to 6:00 PM at HPU’s lab, featuring games, activities, and music to create a joyful and supportive environment.

HPU’s OTD program in Honolulu is the only doctoral occupational therapy program in Hawaii, reflecting the university’s commitment to addressing the unique needs of local communities.

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Located downtown, the program offers students hands-on experience in state-of-the-art simulation labs and opportunities to collaborate with other health programs, all under the mentorship of respected faculty members in the field.