By Ms Michelle Pereira for BIS Mumbai

On Saturday, June 19, 2025, Don Bosco Nerul in Association with Wading Through Life – Holistic Wellness Initiative, hosted a heart-warming Indoor Playdate at Don Bosco Nashik that brought smiles, laughter, and a strong sense of community to children with special needs and their parents. This special event was organized as part of the recently launched Parent Support Group, which has already seen enthusiastic participation from many families.

The team is a collaborative initiative rooted in compassion, inclusion, and holistic care.

 We were joined by Spiritual Director - Fr Barnabe D’Souza (DBA, Nerul) who brings spiritual depth and visionary leadership to our work, Ms Wenonah Castellino, a passionate advocate for neurodivergent individuals, and the Founder of Wading Through Life (WTL) – a support and empowerment platform for children with special needs and their families. She also serves as the Advisor at Don Bosco Prafulta Psychological Services Centre, Mumbai, where she contributes her expertise in education, therapy integration, and vocational training.

 Supporting Don Bosco Leadership & Collaborators were Fr Royal D’Abreo – Parish Priest – DB Nashik, Fr Leon Rodriguez – Youth Animator, Fr Pannasingh Bhuria – Program Organizer, Fr Robert Pen - Rector of Divyadaan and recently appointed Vice Provincial and, Fr Gonsalves Wyman – Rector Nashik Novitiate.

 The playdate was beautifully coordinated by Ms Smita Fernandez, Ms Anagha, and the dedicated core team of WTL in Nashik. Ms. Castellino skillfully anchored the day's events.

 The day was filled with fun activities designed to bring joy and connection. Children and parents alike grooved to a lively action song that had everyone dancing with delight. An energetic “In and Out” game quickly became a crowd favorite. Classic games like relays, a potato race, and a fun-filled pyramid game added to the excitement. A talent show gave the children a wonderful platform to shine and express themselves, drawing smiles and applause from everyone.

 The support group engaged in an open and thoughtful discussion on the theme of ‘Handling Parent Burnout’. Parents shared their personal journeys, the challenges of raising a child with special needs, and exchanged experiences. A special educator guided the session with practical tips on managing stress, anxiety, and emotional fatigue — offering reassurance and support to caregivers.

 The playdate was not just a day of play; it was a celebration of community, resilience, and shared understanding. Events like these are a testament to the power of coming together — reminding every parent that they are not alone on this journey.