What are special needs?
Individuals with unique developmental characteristics from what is believed as the normal developmental milestones, who need to be trained in skills that naturally emerge in other people, are called individuals with special needs. Anyone who might need extra help because of a medical, emotional, or learning problem have special needs because they might need medicine, therapy, or extra help that others don't typically need or only need once in a while.
These individuals have distinct goals, and will need added guidance and help meeting academic, social, emotional, and sometimes medical milestones.
These developmental variations are commonly grouped under the names of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Cerebral Palsy and low Intelligence Quotient.
However, people with these diagnoses, are much more than their diagnosis. They are innocent and have a simple way of understanding things. They are loving and caring but their way of expression is unique.
When we build a strong support system around them, they are accepting of their differences and adjust easily to the demands of the environment. Our work with them involves working and empowering the individual himself and strengthening the environment… the family support system around him.
Working with the individual
Our aim while working with the individual is:
Helping them relax, and be able to express themselves and communicate, feeling safe and secure
Build acceptance for themselves; feel encouraged and motivated about their daily life
We use play, art and experiential activities for catharsis and expression, since verbal expression may not be easy for them.
With our technical expertise along with understanding of energy-based techniques, we give the individual an outlet to share and overcome his inner reservations. The freedom of emotional expression thus opens doors leading to their self-exploration. The shift within is gradually reflected in the person’s daily living and overall well-being.
Creating a supportive Environment
The individual needs to be understood and given the required scaffolds which help him adjust in his environment. Our work in strengthening a special child extends to creating a stabilised environment for his growth.
Parents
Parents need to be the pillars of support for helping the child in building faith and trust in himself. Being so much involved in their role as parents, they forget to be there for themselves.
In our personal interactions, workshops and individual sessions, we help clear all the inhibitions and confusions and help parents feel confident about their capacity and role. They are thus able to find an inner sense of balance in their lives, and extend this nurturing to the child to help him feel accepted and safe.
Extended Family
Every person in the individual’s life plays their part and contributes to creating a gentle and safe space. We specialise in helping the family members understand the individual from the perspective of his strengths and how to provide him the necessary space to grow and flourish.
Congenial family relationship is a boost in their shaping into peaceful individuals.
Teachers
Giving is valuable when we know how to give and what to give. We help teachers understand persons who have special needs and how to be with them which is most helpful in nurturing their strength.
When the teachers give with this understanding, it is the most fulfilling experience for the teacher as well as the student.
School
An environment catering to the child’s special needs is most valuable. School is the system which educates the child and helps in shaping his personality.
What is the best way to build a strong foundation in these children? How to work with them? Which systems in school can best support and nourish them? Identifying the child’s academic goals … what are the areas of strength…which interests which the child can explore…pursue…are important aspects.
These are the factors that we give clarity on.
We have meditations for children.
Contact
Children’s Meditations