Bridging the 'special' gap

Chandigarh: The Society for Rehabilitation and the Mentally Challenged (SOREM), Chandigarh, is a shelter to hundreds of children showing signs of autism, down syndrome, mental retardation, and speech and over-all development challenges.

Pramila Chandra Mohan, founder of the Sector 36-based institute, tells TOI that autism, a brain development disorder, is not widely known in this region. While it may have gained recognition over the years, its acceptance in society is still not as satisfying. However, she says, that too is slowly changing with time.

"Parents have begun to realize the importance of a child's social development. Children with these conditions are not to be treated any differently than the rest of us," she says.

"It is important for us to bring light to this cause and make all our efforts to not make them feel disqualified. I want society to understand that just because they (such children) are not able to communicate like you and me, it doesn't make them any less of a human being. In fact, it is their desire to be a part of us. So, why can't we who consider ourselves 'normal' make that come true?" she asks.

Not just from the city, but children are seen accompanied by their parents to SOREM from places like Ambala, Kurukshetra, Sirsa, and Ludhiana, only to be able to nurture their child's social and physical development.

"With respect to other therapy centres and government schools in the city, the teacher and child ratio at SOREM is notable," says vice-principal of the school, Sangeeta Jain. Through plans like the 'Visual Schedule' and 'Early Intervention', we are able to foster the child's brain in such a way that he/she automatically becomes inquisitive about surroundings and becomes more interested in approach. Through this , children also don't develop communication defects," she adds. The facilities provided at SOREM are remarkable. From expansive classrooms and basketball courts to yoga, vocational therapies and other extra-curricular activities, this place has become a ray of hope for many parents in the region.

SOREM is hugely supported by the New York-based Global Autism Project, an organization that trains teachers and young student volunteers, to work with children with autism globally. The group makes annual visits to Chandiagrh's SOREM.

What is Autism?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized in varying degrees, like difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviours. ASD can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention, and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances. Some persons with ASD excel in visual skills, music, math and art. Each individual with autism is unique.