Foundation trains teachers, others to handle autistic kids

A non-Profit organization, Thoughtful House Foundation, is creating a platform for educators to plan and develop appropriate autism learning programmes across all educational settings, especially those focusing on pupils in the early years and those in primary schools.

Autism is a developmental disorder that manifests from childhood and affects the social, communication and cognitive abilities of the child. There is still no cure for autism but early intervention through therapy, nutrition and special education are encouraged to help the child grow to be as ‘normal’ as possible.

According to a statement by the foundation, Thoughtful House Executive Director, Ms. Yahcit Zakari, said the initiative has become imperative as cases of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) increases in Nigeria and more children with the health condition are enrolled in mainstream schools. Essentially, the move will help educators in tackling many challenges they face in teaching and managing the social, behavioural and academic development of children on the spectrum.

At a recent workshop with the theme “Core Elements for Effective Teaching of Children with Autism in the Classroom” which took place at Be Better Centre, Gudu in Abuja and was targeted at school teachers, directors and heads of schools for children in both early years and primary classes, participants received training on practical teaching and activities that were aimed at helping to ensure that children on the autism spectrum receive developmentally appropriate lessons that reflect their circumstances. The participants were also exposed to training and activities that are capable of challenging and supporting the development of the affected kids.

The training session which was facilitated by Zakari was attended by representatives of seven schools in Abuja. Participants also received practical workshop materials that could be used as references in their daily duties and certificates of completion at the end of the sessions.
Thoughtful House Foundation has been leading in building capacity for professionals in the care and education of children with autism.

Zakari said :
”We have a responsibility to make life better and more meaningful to these affected children.

We have organized and carried out similar workshop in the past, involving public and private school teachers for free.”