By Copy Editor Raya Anderson
Courtesy of Reality Works
A young boy walking up the stairs in maternity equipment.
Starting Monday, Oct. 21, Kennedy High students may notice something unusual: some students are suddenly pregnant. But don’t worry, it’s just for a day. Introducing maternity vests, Child Development students must wear them for one full school day as part of their curriculum taking turns throughout the semester.
Kennedy High will be using equipment from RealityWorks. The maternity vests weigh between 25-30 pounds, signifying the third trimester of pregnancy. Inside the vests is sand, a water bladder, a steel ball, and foam breasts. Students can not take them off or they will receive an automatic fail. Participants must take care of them, as the vests cost around $1200. Students will wear the vest underneath a provided maternity shirt, not visible, adding to the experience.
“This wearable pregnancy vest and robust curriculum help users understand pregnancy’s impact on the body as well as finances, relationships, and emotions,” Reality Works said on their website realityworks.com.
In the past, Child Development students were given a mechanical baby in the second semester, so the maternity vests will simulate the beginning. No matter the gender, students will have to participate, or they can opt out for another assignment so they will still get conceptual knowledge.
“...I feel like walking around school with it is a little embarrassing. However, I understand why we do it,” junior Cameryn Stallings said.
The alternative assignment will be based on the same subject of pregnancy, exploring areas of physical, emotional, and social parts of pregnancy. It consists of researching, interviewing, and a reflection at the end of the assignment. Afterwards they will have to present what they have learned, following a specific criteria.
The schedule starts on Oct. 21, Monday through Friday, with five students a day. Usually, when wearing the vests, past participants have noticed their body temperature has risen, along with some muscle pain. Although, it is not permanently damaging, unless a student has a medical condition or circumstances. It is very important that those that fall in those categories participate in the alternative assignment.
“We believe this project will provide invaluable insight into the physical challenges and experiences of pregnancy, enhancing our students' understanding and empathy in child development,” Child Development teacher Tamara Aden said in an email.
After the project, students will be able to be prepared and more educated about childbirth and the stages of pregnancy.
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