On the afternoon of May 29, AYLUS Pearland volunteers gathered at the West Pearland Library to design the youth-led activities curriculum for the upcoming SMILE Summer Camp. Under the guidance of LSA Director Sharon Cheng, the team worked collaboratively to develop engaging and meaningful activities for children with special needs.
Now entering its fifth summer since launching in 2021, the SMILE Summer Camp is expanding to a second location in Katy, TX. Volunteers began the session by sharing their past experiences and teaching interests. Sharon then facilitated the curriculum development process, with a strong focus on life skills education.
Aila Jiang, the founder of Youth SMILE 4 Special Needs track, presented successful past modules—such as market simulations and healthy living workshops—to inspire the group. Drawing from these examples, the volunteers brainstormed and created innovative lesson plans targeting fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and cognitive development.
Volunteers
Event Lead: Aila Jiang (2.5 hrs)
2 hrs: Eddie Fu, Roy Zheng, Selena Zhang, Brendon Jiang, Junxi Zhang
1.5 hrs: Jiarui Cui, Ivan Wei
1hr: Anna Zheng
Parent on Duty: Carol Li (Aila Jiang)
