By Ms Michelle Pereira for BIS Mumbai

On August 23, 2025, Wading Through Life – Funtoosh (WTL), in collaboration with Don Bosco Prafulta Psychological Services, DBA Nerul launched a new support group for parents of children with special needs at Don Bosco High School, Matunga. The inaugural gathering warmly welcomed 25 parents along with their children, marking an inspiring and hopeful beginning for this initiative.

WTL is a vibrant and inclusive community created to support families of children with special needs. It provides a safe, empathetic space where parents, caregivers, and experts can connect, share experiences, explore solutions, and learn from one another. Guided by the belief that every child is uniquely gifted and capable of thriving, WTL champions a holistic approach to nurturing both the child and the family. A highlight of the meeting was the sharing of parent testimonials, which underscored the group’s value as a place where families truly feel they belong.

The inaugural session was graced by esteemed guests - Fr Ajoy Fernandes, Ex-Director, Don Bosco International School, Matunga & Director for Youth Services at Prafulta, Fr Robert Pen, Vice Provincial, Mumbai Province, Fr Barnabe D’Souza, Rector, Don Bosco, Nerul, Fr Flovi D’Souza, Principal, Don Bosco, Matunga and Ms. Wenonah Castellino, Founder-Director, WTL & Advisor to DBA.

The event was thoughtfully coordinated by Ms Geeta Kadav and Mr Wilfred Pereira, whose efforts ensured a seamless and meaningful program.

The meeting opened with a prayer and prayer song, symbolising unity and commitment to the cause. Fr Fernandes delivered an insightful talk on parental burnout, sharing practical strategies for stress management and highlighting the importance of mutual support and shared experiences. Ms Castellino introduced parents to WTL’s vision and mission, focusing on creating awareness, building resilience, fostering inclusion, and spreading joy among children, caregivers, and their families.

She also presented an exciting line-up of upcoming activities designed to provide children with opportunities to participate, learn, and socialise. These include structured Funtoosh Playdates—featuring special events like open mic sessions to celebrate the talents of both children and parents—family gatherings, therapeutic interventions, music and movement therapy, brain gym activities, and sports such as basketball, football, table tennis, adaptive functional fitness sessions, and skating. Creative pursuits like art and craft and dance sessions will further enrich the experience. Parent meetings will continue to feature expert-led discussions on relevant topics, offering valuable guidance and support.

Having successfully hosted initiatives such as the Mini Mela and family picnics, WTL now looks forward to bringing the same warmth and vibrancy to the Don Bosco Matunga community. This initiative reaffirms WTL’s commitment to creating spaces where children and families can thrive together, celebrate abilities, and find strength in solidarity.