UTSDGs

【USR Hub】Integration and Diffusion of Medical Care, Elderly Support, and Higher Education: Establishing an Innovative Development Base for Social Prescriptions and Connector Workers - Unleashing Playfulness in Misfits: Diverse Solutions for ADHD

The **Quirky Project** collaborated with the Taipei City University USR (University Social Responsibility) Office to bring the documentary *Let Kids Be Themselves* to the **Huashan 1914 Creative Park**. Through the story of Dr. Jia-Yan Lee, the "Quirky Doctor" and initiator of the *Let Kids Be Themselves Action Alliance*, attendees explored how to break societal stereotypes of "hyperactive children." Using card games, they practiced empathy and understanding the true needs of children, while also learning from the experiences of educators and medical professionals about practical ways to implement "children's rights." The Quirky team led by example, making the venue a truly open and welcoming space for all guests. Adults enjoyed snacks and casual interactions, while children ran freely, occasionally darting past speakers while making funny faces or gestures! Taipei City University provided full support, with Associate Professor Shih-Heng Weng from the Department of Psychology and Counseling, Director Shih-Chih Wang from the Department of Health and Welfare, and Professors Yi-Ling Wu and Ting-Yu Chueh from the Graduate Institute of Transition and Leisure Education for Persons with Disabilities leading counseling students to play with the children. Activities included doodling, board games, storytelling, and interactive games, leaving both children and adults deeply satisfied and inspired by an evening filled with emotions, learning, reflection, and action. Zhe-Yu, founder of *Play Your School*, introduced the *#Robot Ah-Di* card game experience. Despite the lively environment filled with running children, the adults playing the game became fully immersed in its narrative, participating in focused discussions and sharing insights. The game encouraged deeper levels of understanding and respect among participants, fostering empathy and cross-generational, gender, and background unity. Together, everyone became part of the "Robot Kingdom," brainstorming solutions for Ah-Di's challenges and discovering creative, inclusive perspectives. It was a reminder that we can collectively build a diverse and equitable "Robot Kingdom." A special guest made a surprise appearance—Wang Xiao-Yin, producer of *Xiao Xiao*, a 2023 Golden Horse Award nominee in seven categories. After watching the documentary, she was visibly moved to tears. She shared her journey of creating Taiwan’s first feature film centered on ADHD children, inspired by her own experiences as a parent. Her powerful question lingered: Have we, as adults, parents, teachers, schools, and society, interfered too much in children’s freedom to become their authentic selves, all in the name of "love"? During the expert panel, Professor Shih-Heng Weng emphasized the importance of "playfulness" starting with today’s immersive play experience. Qiu Lan, Executive Director of the Humanistic Education Foundation, shared a poignant story that underscored the organization's dedication to advocating for children’s rights. Finally, Dr. Jia-Yan Lee, fresh off a return from Switzerland and a high-speed rail trip to Taipei, concluded the evening with a thought-provoking question that left everyone in deep reflection.

Implemented by Center for Teaching and Learning Development
Date: 2024/09/19