VISIT TO THE MANKHURD CENTRE FOR EARLY INTERVENTION OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
In December 2024, members of our committee, led by President Satyan Israni and Director PP Framroze Mehta, visited the Mankhurd Centre for Early Intervention of Neurodivergent Children. The visit was a deeply moving experience, shedding light on the extraordinary work carried out by the centre’s staff and the resilience of the families they support. A Joyful Celebration
The morning began with a heartwarming Christmas celebration planned for the children and their parents. A festive lunch was organised, and gifts were distributed to bring smiles to the young faces. The centre was adorned with Christmas decorations, and the children’s joy was palpable as they clapped and cheered at the twinkling lights.
Understanding the Centre’s Approach
Our interaction with the centre’s dedicated professionals revealed a wellstructured programme tailored to each child’s unique needs. The team includes highly trained occupational therapists who design daily routines to support developmental progress. These routines are not limited to the centre but are extended to the home environment, empowering parents to continue the care.
A clinical psychologist closely monitors each child’s progress, ensuring that interventions are adjusted as needed. Speech therapy, which is critical for many children, is conducted weekly, but the centre faces a shortage of therapists. Additionally, a senior occupational therapist visits weekly to oversee progress and ensure adherence to the children’s developmental plans.
Detailed daily reports document every milestone, allowing parents and professionals to track improvements. Social workers play an equally vital role, identifying children in underserved communities and guiding their families to the centre. Their efforts bring hope to families who might otherwise be left without support.
Empowering Parents
The centre places significant emphasis on educating parents to manage their children’s needs. These efforts transform what could be overwhelming challenges into manageable routines, helping families prepare their children for specialised schools and brighter futures. Outings, picnics, and events
organised by the centre bring moments of joy to the children and their families, strengthening bonds and creating cherished memories.
Emotional Encounters
Interacting with the parents and children was profoundly moving. Among them was Gulam, a young boy who initially appeared anxious but soon clapped with delight at the Christmas lights. His mother, though facing immense challenges, shared her story with remarkable strength and love. Despite having two children with similar conditions, her unwavering commitment to their care was a testament to the boundless power of maternal devotion.
Another memorable moment was meeting Afroze, a gentle boy whose magical smile brightened our day as we stroked his hand. These encounters reminded us of the immense impact empathy and support can have on
lives.
Our Commitment
Our committee is dedicated to not only providing financial aid but also contributing time and talent. We plan to organise art and craft sessions, tea parties, and nutritional workshops for the mothers. We have invited the centre’s staff to suggest areas where we can further support their efforts. The visit ended with a festive feast of Christmas cake and snacks, as we wished everyone a joyful holiday season. The experience reinforced our resolve to continue supporting the Mankhurd Centre and its mission to
nurture every child’s potential with love and care.