Category News

News, events and happenings related to special needs.

Days of Observances for the Neurodivergent Community in October

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.

The Importance of Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)

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’s SEN Symposium & Stakeholder Workshop Spotlights Employment For the Neurodivergent Community

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.

Getting Lost: Preparing your Autistic Child and Yourself

Child looking lost with blurred background
The concern of an autistic child getting lost can be amplified due to the unique challenges their children might face. Autistic children may have difficulty understanding danger, communicating their needs, or finding their way back to safety. It's crucial for parents to address this topic with sensitivity and clarity, and to implement practical safety measures to help prevent such situations.

Understanding Twice Exceptional (2e) Individuals

Colourful sky with girl looking out the window with a teropong thing next to it
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.

The Importance of Exercise for Neurodivergent Individuals: Enhancing Well-Being and Development

Exercise is universally recognized for its physical health benefits, but its importance extends far beyond just the body. For neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other neurological conditions, regular physical activity can be particularly transformative. Exercise plays a crucial role in promoting mental health, improving cognitive function, and fostering social skills, making it a vital component of overall well-being for neurodivergent individuals.

The Power of Quality Sleep for Neurodivergent Individuals

Lady sleeping on bed but as if floating in the clouds with a blue sky
Sleep is a fundamental aspect of human health, influencing physical, mental, and emotional well-being. For neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other neurological conditions, achieving quality sleep can be particularly challenging. However, understanding the unique sleep patterns and needs of neurodivergent individuals is essential for promoting overall health, improving cognitive function, and enhancing quality of life.
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