LRHS Mustangs are taking care of “sock babies”

Jared Baker and Cassidy McLellan – Mustangs Ahead

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – Advanced Placement (AP) psychology Mustangs had the opportunity to experience what it is like to be a parent.

Over the course of two weeks, Mustangs were required to carry around and take care of a “sock baby,” a simulated infant made from bundled socks, rags, etc.

AP psychology teacher William Wallin said, “This project is intended for students to get a glimpse of what parenthood is like. Specifically, the amount of responsibility of looking after another person and how that person develops.”

Mustangs were required to take their children with them everywhere they went, and if they needed to leave them somewhere, they had to find someone to babysit their child.

Senior Josie Plakyda said, “Taking care of my baby this week has been eye opening because it puts into perspective how time-consuming babies are.”

The project was not only popular among Mustangs, but the instructor as well.

“My favorite part is simply facilitating the project and seeing everyone from the staff and students become involved. I really enjoyed everyone’s enthusiasm,” Wallin continued.

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Wallin enjoyed his first time facilitating this project and believes there are ways that he can make the project better for next year.

 “I would like to find ways to increase the staff’s voluntary participation,” he said. “This year we had volunteers to be the foster care and I believe we can create more roles that give the students a more comprehensive experience.”