Taarana School students and parents together with staff at the World Autism Awareness Day event.
In conjunction with World Autism Awareness Day, Taarana School held an event to show the diversity of differently-abled children, while also advocating for them.
Raise Yourself To Help Mankind Foundation (Rythm) chairman Datin Seri Umayal Eswaran, who was present at the event in Petaling Jaya, said all individuals, including those with autism, had untapped potential that could be realised with assistance and support.
“Children who are on the autism spectrum or have other conditions perceive the world in a distinct way.
“As a result, we need to construct a world that is more supportive and accepting, allowing the children to flourish alongside others,” she said.
Taarana School, established in 2011 under the Rythm Foundation, provides assistance and resources for children with special educational needs.
The school seeks to unlock the children’s potential and help them discover their strengths as well as prepare them to be independent and lead fulfilling lives.
Its principal Dr Sunitha Sivakumaran said instead of looking at the disabilities, they should look for the possibilities.
Parents attending the celebration.— Photos: FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
“We try to ensure that every child leaves this school with multiple skill sets.
“We want to teach them to be independent so that when they go out, they can realise their full potential,” added Sunitha.
Parent Nurul Aini Rosman said the school had helped her son develop tremendously.
“Taking care of my child certainly wasn’t easy. I lost weight and needed to quit my job to take care of him as I didn’t feel comfortable with other people handling him.
Some of the students and parents participating in puzzle art.
“But then I found the school – by accident – and enrolled him. I was surprised that he has gradually gotten better.
“For others, it might be a small change but for us. it was a huge achievement,” Nurul Aini said.
The Autism Day event saw the students engage in a variety of activities ranging from puzzle art and yoga to performances.
It concluded with heartfelt testimonials from some parents, who shared how Taarana School had a positive impact on their children and themselves.
