By Natasha Rodrigues for BIS Mumbai

On October 17, 2026, as part of its observance of Mental Health Month in October, Prafulta Centre for Psychological Wellness generously offered an orientation session to St Dominic Savio High School, Andheri, for its teaching staff. Recognising the importance of mental health and the need to equip educators to better support children, the school welcomed this opportunity. The session on “Supporting Children: Understanding Developmental, Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties” was conducted by Ms Nazema M. Sagi, Clinical Psychologist at Prafulta. The session commenced with a warm welcome by the Principal, Ms Valerie Mascarenhas.

The session highlighted how children’s behaviour may be influenced by their emotions, experiences, environment and developmental needs. Emphasising the importance of understanding rather than labelling, the resource person explained neurodevelopmental and behavioural conditions, including Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), through practical examples and case studies.

Teachers explored classroom challenges associated with these conditions and learnt strategies such as giving clear, brief instructions, breaking tasks into manageable steps, incorporating movement breaks, using visual reminders, maintaining predictable routines and reinforcing positive behaviour. The discussion on autism highlighted differences in social communication and sensory processing, stressing the importance of inclusion, peer understanding and respect for individual communication styles.

A key focus was the distinction between observing concerns and making a diagnosis. The session emphasised that behaviours such as restlessness, difficulty concentrating or avoiding eye contact do not independently indicate a developmental condition. Careful observation, objective documentation, communication with parents and appropriate referrals for comprehensive assessment were identified as essential steps towards timely support.

The discussion also addressed emotional difficulties, including anxiety and low mood, highlighting the impact of stress, trauma and significant life changes on children’s well-being. Teachers were encouraged to reflect on their classroom experiences and strengthen collaboration between home and school.

Reflecting on the programme, Sir Jansen Vaz described it as “highly needed and eye-opening”, highlighting how the insights helped teachers relate the discussion to their everyday classroom experiences.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks to the resource person and the school management. Fr Franco Pereira, Rector, shared an incident underscoring the importance of understanding developmental and mental health concerns in today’s world. He emphasised the need to respond with compassion rather than mere sympathy, stressing that genuine understanding must be accompanied by appropriate and timely action to support every child.

The session reaffirmed the school’s commitment to nurturing an inclusive and compassionate environment where every child is understood, supported and encouraged to flourish.