CSM OT Student Plans Dance Camp Focused on Mental Health in Children

OMAHA, Neb. – Katie Ondracek understands the struggles with mental health.

“I’ve been in the low, low with my own mental health. I was in in-patient rehab, and I found my way up,” she said.

That’s why the College of Saint Mary occupational therapy doctoral student felt so strongly about hosting a summer dance camp to help children struggling with mental health challenges. One in five children shows signs and symptoms consistent with anxiety and depression. The program is part of her capstone project for her doctoral degree.

“Let’s Dance! Kids Camp for Mindful Moves” is a free summer camp for children from 8-17 years old and focuses on dance. It will take place in the CSM’s Lied Fitness Center from 5:30 to 7 p.m., Monday through Wednesday, June 6-29.

“There’s a lot of evidence that shows dancing helps learning in the classroom, meeting new friends and self-esteem,” said Ondracek, who will graduate from CSM’s OT program in December. “There’s also a lot of research on positive mental health strategies.”

Ondracek also knows from experience how dance can influence your life. “I danced for 22 years, and I think that played a huge role in helping me find myself again and just having that self-confidence,” she said. “I feel like dancing just makes me feel like I can be myself. I’m free. It’s a big self-expression.”

Camp participants will be grouped by age. Third- and fourth-graders will attend Mondays; fifth- and sixth-graders on Tuesdays; and seventh-graders and older on Wednesdays. Each week has a theme: hip hop, pom, jazz and a review of what they learned. Parents will work with their children during the last 30 minutes of the 90-minute sessions.

Ondracek hopes the children will learn about their emotions and how to regulate them.

“Having kids able to be aware of how they’re feeling and change their thinking to a more positive thing,” she said.

As of May 27, 35 children had registered for the camp, with room for 45 total.