Morgan Selep, a third grader from Woodview Elementary School in Bolingbrook, decided to go to work with her dad, Mike Selep - Professional Services Director at IPRA, today as part of National Take Your Child to Work Day.  A lot of schools and organizations encourage it, even the National Institutes of Health. 

This is Morgan’s story of her day…

I started my day with a quick breakfast in the cafe with Polly McKee and getting ready for the Benefits Committee meeting. When we got there, I had to sit in the meeting for a while…a long while…It was a little boring.  I thought it would be fun since there were cool people from Park Districts and Special Recreation Associations. 

I really enjoy doing activities at my Park District like soccer, swimming, family nights, Daddy Daughter Date Nights, concerts in the park, birthday parties (ceramics, gymnastics, and swimming), flick & float nights, and preschool (I miss Miss Joni).  I like to do these things because they are fun, I get to see my friends, meet new friends, try new things, spend time with my family, learn about things, and exercise & run around.  By doing these things I am a better soccer player.  I know how to play the game and understand the rules.  I can work well with my teammates.  I can run around for a lot longer time.  I know how to handle winning and losing games.  I can swim better.  I have more confidence because I am not scared of the water anymore.  I know how to get along better with other people.  I understand that people with disabilities are regular people, and I am not afraid of them anymore.  I feel more comfortable meeting new people and making friends. 

I made it through the Benefits Committee Meeting.  I met all of the other people that work at IPRA, helped do a lot of sorting, and did not have to go to any other meetings.  The End.

Morgan had a fantastic day at IPRA and understands the benefits of parks and recreation.  If you need to talk with an expert about getting young people motivated in your district, you might try consulting a nine year old that participates in your programs.  Thanks Morgan for coming in to join with us for the day.