By Ms Michelle Pereira for BIS Mumbai

Don Bosco Nashik in collaboration with Wading Through Life – Holistic Wellness (WTL), hosted a Support Meeting and Funtoosh Playdate for neurodivergent children and their families at Don Bosco, Nashik on July 19, 2025.

 After successfully launching its first Support Group for families of children with special needs at Don Bosco Academy (DBA), Nerul, WTL has steadily expanded its outreach to Don Bosco Matunga and now Don Bosco Nashik. The second WTL Funtoosh Playdate and Support Meeting was conducted on August 30, 2025.

 Leading the Nashik Support Group are Fr Royal D’Abreo, Parish Priest at Don Bosco Parish – Nashik, Fr Gonsalves Wyman, Rector Novitiate Salesian Training Institute (STI) Nashik, Fr Leon Rodrigues, Youth Animator and Fr Johnson Bhuriya, administrator at Don Bosco Bhavan, Nashik.

 WTL founder Ms Wenonah Castellino has been working in close coordination with our WTL coordinator Nashik Ms Smita Fernandez. The playdate began with a prayer, followed by a joyful action song performed by children and parents—an engaging moment that had everyone singing along. The children then took center stage with a delightful talent showcase of dances and songs, drawing smiles and applause from all present. Excitement peaked during the biscuit race, filling the hall with laughter and energy.

 A short tea break, sponsored by Franklin Templeton, brought families together in a warm and relaxed setting. Employees from Franklin Templeton also joined in, enthusiastically participating in the games and activities as part of their corporate initiative. Craft corners, managed by teachers Chetna and Heena along with parish youth, offered creative fun while helping the children develop motor skills.

 In the often-overwhelming journey of raising a child with special needs, the Support Group stands as a space of learning, sharing, and belonging—a reminder that no family walks this road alone. The Funtoosh Playdate turned a simple day into one of games and creativity, a celebration of inclusion, resilience, and community support.