By Ms Michelle Pereira for BIS Mumbai

While much attention is given to the wellbeing of these special children, the immense responsibilities borne by their caregivers are often overlooked. Aware of this fact Don Bosco Academy in Nerul hosted only its second meeting of its Support Community for parents of children with special needs. This initiative aims to create a space for parents and caregivers to find support, share experiences, and focus on their own healing and relaxation.

 The Support Community was conceptualized by Ms Wenonah Castellino, Advisor at Don Bosco Academy, and Fr Barnabe D’Souza, Rector of Don Bosco Nerul. The event was organized by Dr Ramani Kumar and her team of psychologists and counsellors from Don Bosco Prafulta, with support from members of the Rotary Club of Smart City, Vashi, including President Milind Chandak, Mr Kishore, and Dr Ashwani Suhas.

 The session began with a motivational song by Ms Castellino and the academy staff. In her address, Ms Castellino explained the mission of the community: to empower caregivers through sharing experiences, discussing challenges, celebrating small victories, and finding collective solutions. She emphasized building emotional resilience, learning practical coping strategies, and supporting one another on the parenting journey. She also introduced the 3-2-1 rule that focussed on practicing mindfulness, journaling and expressing gratitude daily, and focussing on one meaningful action every day. This was proposed as a blueprint towards attaining mental well-being.

 Parents openly shared heartfelt testimonials of their journeys, highlighting common struggles and solutions. One mother described her challenges in teaching her son everyday tasks while receiving little family support. A father spoke of how the need for constant caregiving limited outings for either parent. These stories highlight the importance of societal acceptance and the dignity of children with special needs, urging better integration into schools and workplaces.

 Psychologist and student counsellor Ms Prutha Lunvara in her session on Parent Burnout provided insights on caregiver burnout, emphasizing that parents must prioritize their own health to care effectively for their children.

 Meanwhile, the children participated in an art therapy session led by the Prafulta team and art trainer Ms Priya Alfonso. Through expressive painting, the children explored their creativity and emotions in a safe and supportive environment.

 Through monthly meetings, the initiative of the support groups aims to reaffirm the importance of supporting caregivers and building an inclusive society that accepts and welcomes children with special needs.