Inaugurated as part of the INDH program, the socio-educational center dedicated to autistic children in Tiflet is an integrated structure thanks to its social, educational and health services intended for these children in need of special family and educational support.
The center strives to involve families in the rehabilitation process of their children by providing guidance and counseling sessions that help them understand the nature of autism and ways to effectively care for their children. children, as well as awareness-raising and training workshops for guardians with the aim of raising awareness of the importance of integrating autistic children into public life.
In a statement to MAP, Moulay Hafid El Kamoun, head of the social action division at the Khmisset prefecture, indicated that as part of the high solicitude with which His Majesty King Mohammed VI surrounds vulnerable categories and autistic children, the INDH built and equipped an autism center with a capacity of 120 people in order to strengthen health and educational infrastructure and ease the burden on families.
This Center attaches particular importance to improving the quality of life of this category of society by offering different services such as psychomotor skills, specialized education sessions, psychological support and craft workshops, he said. -he indicated, noting that the Center includes sanitary facilities and rooms for occupational therapy, speech therapy, psychomotor skills, music, media, social assistance and sports.
For his part, the president of the Amal association for autistic children in Tiflet, Abdelali Boutahri, indicated that this structure allows beneficiaries to have free access to a set of educational and social services.
Training meetings are held to present the problems that children with autism suffer from, as well as the health care and educational programs available to them.
Title: Bridging Gaps: A Conversation on Socio-Educational Support for Autistic Children
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Good day, and welcome to this insightful interview. Today, we’re privileged to have Dr. Emily Carter, a leading expert in special education and autism spectrum disorders. Dr. Carter, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Emily Carter: It’s a pleasure to be here. Thank you for having me.
Interviewer: Recently, a socio-educational center dedicated to autistic children was inaugurated as part of the INDH program in Tiflet. Can you tell us about the importance of such integrated structures for children with autism?
Dr. Carter: Absolutely. Integrated structures like the one in Tiflet are crucial because they offer a holistic approach to the needs of autistic children. It’s not just about education; it’s about addressing the social, health, and emotional aspects of their lives. When these services are combined, children receive a more comprehensive support system that can significantly improve their development and quality of life.
Interviewer: You mentioned a holistic approach. How does involving families in the rehabilitation process enhance the effectiveness of the services offered at the center?
Dr. Carter: Family involvement is paramount in the rehabilitation process. Families are often the primary caregivers, and their understanding and participation can lead to better outcomes for their children. The center’s provision of guidance and counseling sessions empowers families with strategies and knowledge, enabling them to reinforce the skills their children learn in a more structured environment. This collaboration helps create a consistent approach to the child’s development, both at home and at the center.
Interviewer: That’s a great point. Many believe that services for autistic children should focus solely on the child. What would you say to those who hold that view?
Dr. Carter: While the child is, of course, the focal point, neglecting the family context can be detrimental. Autism impacts not just the individual but the entire family unit. Educating and supporting parents and caregivers fosters a nurturing environment, which is critical for the child’s progress. The more equipped families are, the better they can nurture their child’s unique needs outside of the center.
Interviewer: In terms of community impact, how do you see centers like the one in Tiflet influencing societal attitudes toward autism?
Dr. Carter: Centers like this play a pivotal role in raising awareness and understanding about autism within the community. They serve as educational platforms, breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions. By showcasing the potential of autistic individuals and involving families in the conversation, we can foster an inclusive environment where everyone is supported. This ultimately leads to greater acceptance and understanding in the broader society.
Interviewer: It sounds like a transformative initiative. What further steps do you think should be taken to improve support for autistic children and their families beyond such centers?
Dr. Carter: There are several avenues to explore. First, we need to advocate for more funding to support these initiatives, allowing them to expand their services. Second, we need to invest in training educators and healthcare professionals in autism-specific strategies for better support. Lastly, developing community awareness campaigns can further break down stigma and promote the inclusion of autistic children in mainstream schools and social settings.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Carter. Your insights have invaluable implications for how we support autistic children and their families. We appreciate you sharing your knowledge with us today.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing this crucial topic.
Interviewer: And thank you to our readers for tuning in. Let’s continue to foster understanding and support for all children and families. Until next time!