World Down Syndrome Day is celebrated on the 21st of March every year. It is a day sanctioned by the United Nations since December 2011, at the General Assembly where it was declared. The purpose is to raise public awareness around the world. Every year, there are different themes to highlight the plight of the global community and move the needle towards better support and inclusion. Nevertheless, the early intervention is key to creating towards guiding individuals with Down syndrome require early intervention. This is crucial for children with Down syndrome to help them reach their full potential and promote their overall development.
Rare diseases, though individually uncommon, collectively impact millions of people worldwide. Alagille Syndrome (ALGS) is one such rare genetic disorder that affects multiple organ systems, most notably the liver, heart, and skeletal system. As we observe Rare Disease Day, which falls on February 28th, it is an opportunity to raise awareness about conditions like ALGS and highlight the importance of early diagnosis, research, and access to specialized care
Caring for a child with autism or special needs comes with unique challenges, including access to education, therapy, and financial support. Fortunately, several government and state initiatives in Malaysia offer financial assistance to help ease the burden on families.
Executive functioning refers to a set of cognitive processes that enable individuals to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, juggle multiple tasks, and manage time effectively. These skills are crucial for goal-directed behavior and are often considered the brain’s control center, helping us navigate daily life and respond appropriately to various situations
The 4th SEN Symposium, held on 16 November 2024 at the Royale Chulan Damanara, in conjunction with Kiwanis Malaysia's ongoing commitment to inclusivity, welcomed a distinguished lineup of guests. Among the honored attendees were the Guest of Honor, Dr. Hjh Yatela Zainal Abidin from Yayasan Sime Darby, Mama Kiwanis Puan Sri Christine Khir Johari, Chairman of the Kiwanis Khir Johari Foundation, Dato’ Stewart LaBrooy, Chairman of Kiwanis Malaysia Academy, Advisor Dato’ Fatimah Saad, and Organizing Chairman Miss Desiree Kaur, alongside Kiwanis Malaysia District Governor, Ms. Olivia Chin. The event was well attended with some 180 participants consisting parents, centre operators,
October is a significant month for raising awareness and celebrating neurodiversity. It’s a time to promote inclusivity, challenge stigmas, and advocate for the acceptance of individuals who think, learn, and experience the world differently. While neurodiversity covers a broad spectrum of conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more, October is filled with key observances that recognize the strengths and challenges of these diverse minds.
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a behavior profile within the autism spectrum characterized by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands and expectations, often driven by high levels of anxiety. Despite growing recognition of PDA, particularly in the UK, it is not formally recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), which is the leading diagnostic tool used by mental health professionals globally.
Kiwanis Malaysia Academy (KMA) Special Education Needs (SEN) Symposium is back this year for its fourth installation on 16 Nov 2024 at the Royale Chulan Damansara Hotel! This time, it is being held back-to-back with a training and workshop for stakeholders, on 17 November 2024 at Segi College Kota Damansara. The theme in 2024 is Enriching the Lives of The Neurodivergent Community with a focus on meaningful employment for the neurodivergent community.
For individuals with sensory processing challenges, particularly those with autism, finding effective ways to manage sensory input can be crucial. One powerful tool in the sensory integration toolkit is bouncing on a trampoline or gym ball. This simple activity offers a multitude of benefits that can help regulate sensory input, improve motor skills, and promote overall well-being.
Twice exceptional (often abbreviated as 2e) refers to individuals who possess high abilities or giftedness in one or more areas while simultaneously facing challenges or disabilities in other areas. These individuals exhibit a unique blend of strengths and weaknesses, making their identification and support more complex compared to their peers who are either gifted or have disabilities but not both.
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