2023
Title: Alarming Situation of Child Abuse and Neglect: Time to Act,
Title: Child Abuse and Neglect – An Alarming Situation: Time to Think
Approximately 5 children die every day because of child abuse. 1 out of 3 girls and 1 out of 5 boys will be sexually abused
before they reach age 18. 90% of child sexual abuse victims know the perpetrator in some way. It is alarming that 68% are
abused by a family member. (Source: Child Protect, Children Advocacy Center). "As special needs parents we don’t have the
power to make life ‘fair’, but we do have the power to make life ‘joyful’.
‘Pakistan stands 136th on global ranking on children rights’ (source: The Kids rights Index) was highlighted by Dr. Azra Rafiq,
Project Director of ASM AWB, delivering an informative talk on the signs and manifestations of child abuse. Drawing from
updated global and Pakistan-specific statistics, Dr. Rafiq highlighted the urgent need to address this pervasive problem and
emphasized the importance of raising awareness. It is our collective responsibility that” Every Child’s mental and physical
soundness is achieved for developing and nurturing a healthy nation.”
“PREPARE EVERY CHILD, particularly those with special needs, with effective communication tools to say NO to the
INAPPROPRIATE ACTS and express instances of abuse IMMEDIATELY TO THE GUARDIANS/CAREGIVERS.” Let's Make it Easy to
Communicate” was the topic OF Ms. Shams-un-Nisa, a speech language therapist and psychologist. Her presentation
focused on the significance of teaching non-verbal communication methods, such as signs and alternative forms of
expression, to ensure that children who are unable to speak can effectively communicate their experiences of abuse.
Canada has a well-developed system of diagnostic procedures, legal frameworks, and other initiatives aimed at preventing
child abuse and Pakistan needs to adapt it according to our socio-cultural framework. Ms. Batool Mirza, a Holistic Health
Practitioner in Canada delivering a comprehensive presentation titled "Child Safety in Developed Countries". Ms. Mirza
drew attention to the need of thoroughly assessing all staff members of educational institutions to ensure the presence of
qualified and trustworthy individuals in positions of caregiving for children, known as Character and Vulnerability
certification in Canada.
The panel discussion was led by Prof. Dr. Aisha Mehnaz, Chairperson of the webinar and a renowned Pediatrician The
panelists included Dr. Farzana Saeed, a Senior Pediatrician in USA, Mr. Naushad Shaukat, a Senior Speech and Language
Therapist, Ms. Aliya Batool, CEO of the Pakistan Center for Autism, and Mr. Jhamandas Rathi, Regional Director of
Department for Empowering Persons with Different Abilities (DEPDA). Their collective expertise and diverse perspectives
enriched the discussion, offering valuable insights and recommendations to tackle the issue of child abuse effectively,
reinforced the idea and concept of child safety in an elaborated and accurate manner to bring betterment to our current
societal practices and norms. This dynamic conversation paved the way for suggestions and recommendations to be
implemented in Pakistan.
The webinar garnered a diverse audience, including parents, educators, therapists, children caregivers, and healthcare
providers, all united in their commitment to addressing child abuse and neglect. The recording of this enlightening webinar is
available at: https://fb.watch/lKF9ndcq70/?mibextid=RUbZ1f. By disseminating this knowledge, the webinar hopes to inspire
action, foster dialogue, and ultimately contribute to the creation of a safer environment for children worldwide.
" telecasted through Zoom and Facebook live.
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On 6th May, 2023 an awareness webinar on ZOOM and Facebook live was arranged by ASM AWB team regarding this Home based therapy program. Dr. Shagufta Jabeen was the key note speaker.
The session has been viewed by 550 people till date.
The session has been viewed by 400 participants till date.
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Challenges of Modern Parenting
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Parent Support Group gathering in Sharjah National Park, UAE was held on 30th December, 2022. Ms. Nadia Riaz, ASM Autism Without Borders Coordinator was invited as a guest to address queries and concerns of parents related to Behavior Management, life skills, stimming behaviors and various other issues related with #neurodiversity . Event was hosted by ‘Pakistan Association Dubai (PAD)’, ‘Azam group’ and ‘Ladies Forum’.
Almost 40 people were their including parents and teachers of people of determination and people of determination themselves who got the opportunity to socialize and enjoy a healthy discussion in an informal environment.
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An Awareness Webinar Arranged by Department of Social Work, University of Karachi in collaboration with Autism Without Borders on ‘ *AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER AND THE ROLE OF SOCIAL WORK AS AN ALLIED PROFESSION IN THE FIELD OF AUTISM’* on December 18th, 2022.
250 people viewed the session on Facebook and 66 students from the social work department participated via Zoom.
Dr. Azra Rafiq, Consultant Pediatrician and Director ASM AWB shed light on Autism Spectrum Disorder, its prevalence in Pakistan. Dr. Anila Khan, a clinical psychologist, psychotherapist and SLT elaborated on the interventions and services available to the Autistic community in Pakistan. Dr. Syeda Farhana Sarfaraz, Head of the Department of Social Work, University of Karachi explained the role of social work in the field of autism. She has discussed the concerns and obstacles that social workers face in working as allied professionals in Pakistan and how they are attempting to work as team members in the field of Autism.
Moderated and Planned by Sadia Rehan, M.Phil Scholar, Department of Social Work KU.
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Autism Without Borders arranged a free session in honour of Disability month on ‘Autism Screening and Diagnosis’ in Karachi Medical Complex (AWB’s main office). Dr Idrees, Director C-Arts was the Guest of honour, Dr.Azra Rafiq and Ms. Tayyaba Ghousia were the speakers. It was arranged for both health care providers and Children caregivers. Session was followed by free screening camp in which medical students also took part and learned how to administer screening.
While screening the children they came to realize that people often mistaken Autism for other diseases. Children who were screened were cases of Down Syndrome, Hypothyroidism and other diseases but still had autistic features. Hence, the screening session was successful in identifying both other diseases and ASD.
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*Understanding and Managing Autism – An update’*
CME arranged by Senior Paediatrician Dr. Khalid Zubairi as focal person at *Sindh Government Children hospital North Karachi* in collaboration with Autism Surveillance and Management Project Autism Without Borders on 7th November, 2022; attended by 48 doctors and Paediatricians . Guest speaker was Dr. Azra Rafiq Consultant Paediatrician, ASM AWB Project director. Dr. Nayyar Ahmad and Ms. Sabika Jaffar from AWB’s main office, Karachi Medical Complex also participated in the session.
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Hybrid session by Autism Without Borders in collaboration with Franklin system KPK on
*Development of Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for Autism*
Keynote Speaker *Dr. Aniqa Sohail (HOD Paeds, Expert in Autism interventions & Founder of HELP AUTISM PAKISTAN)* briefly explained what IEP is, it’s importance, components of IEP for Autism, how parents,teachers, therapists can use it productively. ABLLS-R was also explained. Dr. Gul Sanam, CEO Franklin shared about launching of Autism Society KPK and services of Franklin System. Questions from participants addressed. 22 participants including parents, educators and therapists joined in- person; 350 attended and viewed virtually.
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Autism without Borders team with a vision to spread Autism awareness and acceptance, advocating parent empowerment is joining hands with different organizations with the same vision. In this regard AWB collaborated with Foundation Autism wing of Foundation University Islamabad who under the leadership of Dr. Nadia Shafique arranged a hybrid symposium titled ‘ Envision an Inclusive society ‘.
Dr. Azra Rafiq had a thematic lecture on’ Every child a special child- Your child needs you’, Ms. Nadia Riaz shared Contribution of Autism without Borders towards special needs community and Intervention- When & How’s, Ms. Shams un Nisa one of the board members of AWB along with Dr. Azra Rafiq were amongst panelists too for the panel discussion mentioning the loop holes in our education system, suggesting how can it be made more inclusive. Head of Foundation education systems and Major General were the chief guest who proposed of building up an institute for children and adults with Autism in Rawalpindi and other cities where such facilities are not available along with that training teachers in this field. Haseeb Abbasi, a great boy with Autism who is presenting Pakistan in special Olympics with his mother shared their journey and the difficulties they faced and our still facing to cope up with society. Other speakers who joined in person and online also added their valuable insight to the topic and enhanced knowledge of emerging psychologists regarding Autism.
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A great day today for Autism community. Our message is reaching the masses and people are accepting Autism, realizing the importance of working in this field. Autism Surveillance & Management Project Team Autism without Borders outshine in PIMA/FIMA ( Federation of Islamic Medical Association) Convention 2022.
Dr. Azra Rafiq presented her talk on ‘Early years Matter’ and Ms. Nadia Riaz did poster presentation of project titled ‘Start where you are, use what you have, do what you can’ and won 1st Prize.
Healthcare providers from all over the world who participated really showed their interest in knowing about this emerging neurodevelopmental disorder and how we are facilitating Children caregivers in its management.
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Pre- conference workshop of Pakistan Pediatric Association on topic ‘Autism Screening , Diagnosis and Intervention’ was arranged by Qatar Hospital, Karachi. ASM AWB Project Director Dr. Azra Rafiq and Clinical Psychologist of AWB Ms. Tayyaba Ghousia graced the event as speakers. Attended by doctors, para- medic staff and students.
Oct 12, 2022
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Ms. Nadia Riaz, Coordinator ASM Autism Without Borders representation as speaker, sharing her journey on Speech and language Pathology Day at Quaid-e-Azam International Hospital.
Oct 10, 2022
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Adulthood and Autism –
A lived experience of Mr. Asad Mirza who is parent of mildly verbal 25 years old boy with Level 3 Autism. He is local area Coordinator of National Disability Insurance agency in Australia.
Autism surveillance and Management team – Autism without borders arranged webinar on this very important and less discussed topic where Mr. Asad shared how early intervention, correct guidance and parent’s involvement worked for their son. He highlighted the importance of parent empowerment. Key challenges for adults with Autism and their parents were discussed e.g. behaviour change and aggression, hormonal changes, change in Routines and cognition, burden on caregivers etc. How to cope up with these challenges through Assessing the needs, planning and implementation was shared along with living options for Adults and employment opportunities.
He shared fully functional capacity assessment document and its benefits.
Presentation was followed by comments and different suggestions from various professionals and parents of autistic children including Dr.Lakshami from Oman ( Senior Occupational Therapist ). She highlighted importance of addressing sensory issues and Smith transitions.
This session was held on 7th September,2022
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” Mental health of parents having special needs kids “
Mental health is to be made a global priority, it is as important as physical health. Autism Surveillance & Management Project team “Autism without borders” arranged a webinar on this very important area on 10th September, 2022
Dr. Azra Rafiq explained what is mental health and why we chose this topic to be discussed through this platform.
Ms. Rafia Irum (Clinical Psychologist, Instructor Therapist Canada) discussed the Mental health challenges faced by parents of special needs kids, how to manage these challenges, and how to take care of your mental health. She explained how parents can change their thinking patterns, remain positive; muscle therapy relaxation exercises were demonstrated and also how we can eliminate negative energy from our life.
Participants shared their concerns which were answered by the professionals. Ms. Rafia Irum and Ms. Nadia Riaz gave examples from their personal lives and guided parents in best possible way. AWB Volunteers Sadia Rehan and Fatima Jamal also came up with some valuable suggestions for participants.
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Ms. Nadia Riaz- Special Educator, Licensed Behavior therapist and ASM Project Coordinator Autism Without Borders, Director Special Care Rawalpindi- represented AWB as Guest speaker in Auj Down Syndrome Plan & Al-Asr School which is providing Inclusive setup in Islamabad. Ms. Ghazal Arzoo and Ms. Asiya hosted the event. Ms. Nadia Riaz addressed teachers and parents regarding ‘Challenges faced by teachers in mainstream, inclusive and special schools along with challenges faced by parents of neuro-typical and special needs kids; how to assess child’s needs, tips for good parenting, activities at home, qualities of a good teacher and some valuable suggestions for school management and teachers were shared. Behavior management and attention grasping strategies were also discussed.
Audience identified the need of more such training sessions.
How to connect with Autistic Brain
With the increase in prevalence of Autism, Children Caregivers and Healthcare Providers are curious to know ‘How to connect with Autistic Brain’. Autism Surveillance and Management Team Autism without Borders arranged webinar on this very important concern with Dr. Aniqa Sohail; Consultant Paediatrician, Expert in Autism Interventions, Founder Help Autism Pakistan as keynote speaker. She explained the reality of Autism; how autistic brain differs from neuro-typical brain and keeping in mind these differences the challenges faced by people having Autism. Our honourable guest speaker elaborated on what are the main traits, techniques and strategies which needs to be considered while connecting with these people; how to address their sensory, behavioural, gross motor, communication, emotional regulation etc. issues by using attractive, playful activities.
Presentation was followed by Q&A, comments and input from various professionals including Prof. Dr. Aisha Mehnaz, Dr. Meher Akhtar and Syed Naushad Shaukat. This session was held on 22nd June, 2022; viewed by more than 400 people within one day on ZOOM and facebook. Participants requested to arrange more such sessions and suggested some important topics.
https://autismwithoutborders.ca/
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On 16th June, 2022 ASM Autism without Borders Coordinator Ms. Nadia Riaz was invited as guest speaker by Ms. Nighat Haroon from U.A.E to address training children with Autism about Life skills specially how to train in Activities of daily living (ADLs) using ABA strategies as task analysis, chaining , prompting, modeling etc. to foster their independence. Ms. Nighat Haroon detailed how ABA Therapy Enlightens Autism, focused on verbal operants and Reinforcement. Was attended by parents, doctors, therapists and educators from different parts of the world.
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Speech & Language disorders in Children and their Management’
‘Speech & Language disorders in Children and their Management’ is a topic which has always fascinated Children caregivers especially of those kids whose speech or language is either delayed or not proper. Autism Surveillance and Management Team Autism without Borders arranged webinar on this very important concern with Ms. Khadija Abbasi, Speech & Language Pathologist, Psychologist, CEO of SpeechLinguaSpot, Director at SEN Learning Institute, Lahore. Speech is the production of sounds whereas Language describes the message or provides information by writing, speaking or any other medium. These 2 terms are often confused. Our Guest speaker explained all voice, speech and Language disorders, their Intervention and treatment; how SLPs work with these issues and what strategies and games parents can play at home to facilitate their children. Dr. Azra Rafiq also shared some statistics about these disorders and role of Paediatrician in dealing them and referring to SLP.
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Strategies for developing language and building communication skills’ is a topic which has always fascinated Children caregivers especially of those kids whose language is delayed due to any reason. Autism Surveillance and Management Team Autism without Borders arranged webinar on this very important concern with Ms. Batool Mirza, holistic health practitioner from Canada, parent coach and a proud mother of a child with Autism. She shared types of communication, stages of communication, introduction of these stages, activities parents can easily use at home to engage their kids and provoke language. Language Roadmap was shared through different examples and play toolkit which can be used for the purpose. How visuals can be helpful. All strategies shared were easy yet effective.
Autism Without Borders in Collaboration with SNIC Rehab foundation India arranged 3 days Free Master Trainers Program Batch 2 for Children Care givers and Health Care providers due to alarming rise of Autism and neglected Children Mental Health along with shortage of professionals in this field. ASD screening, Growth Monitoring, Development Surveillance and screening , guiding about special attention needed by our special children, differential diagnosis, Multi disciplinary team for management of ASD and importance of early intervention were some major topics discussed in this program.
Autism Surveillance and Management Project’s Canada chapter.
Canada team’s spirits are also quite high and they are enthusiastic to
work for the awareness of Autism there. Ms. Salma Syed was introduced as Coordinator by SACHSS for Canada chapter.
Preventive Pediatrics Program
A session arranged by ZMT Clinics Network on ” Role of Physiotherapy in Primary Health Care”
ZMT Clinics Network Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation center is in Sindh Government Hospital Liaqatabad and in ZMT Shanti Nagar having latest equipments. All services are free of cost.
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‘Let’s know what is Occupational therapy and how it can benefit our children’
More than 350 participants attended and viewed webinar on Zoom and facebook from different parts of the world including health care providers, children caregivers, special educators and therapists. Dr. Mahar, CEO SACHSS Canada; Mr. Burhan ul Haq, Director Autism Without Borders also added their valuable feedbacks.
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Rationale of training Pediatricians and Special Educators in Diagnosis and Management of Autism
Autism without borders (AWB) ASM Project in collaboration with Pakistan Pediatric Association arranged an interactive webinar on August 24, 2021.
Dr. Sidra Kaleem Jafri, Developmental Pediatrician and Pediatric Neurologist AKUH explained Levels of Autism, causes, early signs, usual care pathway, Autism and ADHD as per DSM 5, tools used for screening and diagnosis as well as how pediatricians and special educators can contribute in improving the outcomes of interventions.
Prof. Dr. Mumtaz Lakhani, chairperson of the Interactive Webinar emphasized the need to arrange Certificate course Workshops and integrate ASD in academic curricula of medical, early childhood and special educational curricula.
Dr. Azra Rafiq, Project director reported extreme shortage of Developmental Pediatricians, Pediatric Neurologist and Psychologists eligible to confirm the diagnosis of Autism and emphasized the need of training in this field. Ms. Nadia Riaz presented concerns of Parents of Autistic Children and the need of special educators and therapists to get special training.
More than 100 participants admired webinar including health care providers, children caregivers, special educators and therapists. Experts also requested to arrange certificate courses and workshops from the platform of Pakistan Pediatric Association to raise awareness, develop skills of doctors for early diagnosis and intervention and management outcomes. Other departments including psychology and special education should also work for the betterment of the community.
Autism Surveillance and Management (ASM) Project, Autism without Borders
SNIC (Special needs Integration center) Rehab India in collaboration with ASM team under the umbrella of Autism without borders arranged an interactive webinar on ‘Awareness and Management of Autism detailing screening tools before Diagnosis’
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1st Autism Conference under the umbrella of Autism Without Borders (ASM Project ) in Collaboration of PPA and Konpal Child Abuse and Prevention Society
3rd April was honoured by National and International speakers, Top Pediatricians, Top Special Educators and Therapist. This conference encompassed all Autism related topics starting from Awareness and Screening of Autism to Diagnosis, all types of interventions and Therapies along with role of foods and medicines in Autism. Theme of Conference was “Transition to Adulthood” which was beautifully discussed along with Psychological issues future of Inclusion Children with different abilities in Pakistan. Thoughtful panel discussion ended with a lot of learning and conclusion by senior PPA members for making simple modules and training Doctors and Parents along with association of Special Educators, therapists, Professionals, clinical Psychologists etc.
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Zoom/ Facebook Webinar organized under the aegis of Konpal Child Abuse Prevention Society in collaboration with Autism Without Borders and PPA regarding
‘Teaching life Skills to Individuals with special needs’
on 20th February, 2021.
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Facebook live and ZOOM webinar:
“Managing Anxiety in Autism and other disabilities” arranged by Autism Surveillance and Management team Autism without Borders.
Dr. Azra Rafiq, ASM director explained about Preventive Pediatric Program, ASM project, the importance of this topic and our purpose of arranging these sessions.
Ms. Satwat Rais , Special education teacher from California USA, elaborated What is anxiety with everyday examples; it’s unhealthy affects; scenarios in which we experience anxiety; how to diagnose; it’s underlying causes i.e. cognitive, speech and language, social skillsand sensory challenges and strategies to support these challenges. Lastly why we need to teach these skills of managing anxiety were explained and all in very simple words. Presentation was followed by interactive Q&A session. Around 50 participants attended session from different parts of world on ZOOM including health care providers, therapists, educators and parents. And almost 1.5 k viewers viewed session on Facebook within just 2 days.
Report by ASM Coordinator Mrs. Nadia Riaz
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Facebook live and ZOOM webinar:
“Speech related disorders and pre-speech skills” arranged by Autism Surveillance and Management team Autism without Borders.
Dr. Azra Rafiq, ASM director explained about ASM project, the importance of this topic and our purpose of arranging these sessions. Ms. Ayesha Sultan Awan, Speech and language specialist, elaborated the difference between speech and language, the related disorders and their reasons, how to work on developing Receptive and expressive language. She shared pre-speech skills that how to move from listening to speech development. Madam Shams Un Nisa was the chairperson of the session she also shared useful strategies with parents and therapists about gaining child’s attention and doing work on developing communication. Madam Sajida and Sir Naushad also graced the event with their presence and gave their valuable feedback. Around 60 participants attended from different parts of world including health care providers, therapists, educators and parents.
Report by: – ASM Coordinator Mrs. Nadia Riaz
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Facebook live and ZOOM webinar:
“Behavioral issues in children, their Reasons and Management” arranged by ZMT clinic Network and Autism Surveillance and Management team Autism without Borders.
Dr. Azra Rafiq, ASM director explained the importance of this topic for neurodiverse kids. Nadia Riaz, Special educator, Behavior therapist and parent counselor, discussed challenging behaviors, their possible reasons and Management techniques keeping in view ABA principles in detail with examples. Around 100 participants attended including health care providers, therapists, educators and parents.
Report by: – ASM Coordinator Mrs. Nadia Riaz
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ZOOM and Facebook live webinar:
“Inclusion and Inclusive education” arranged in honour of disability month by Autism Surveillance and Management team Autism without Borders.
Dr. Azra Rafiq, ASM Director gave a brief introduction of project, need of awareness programs and Autism Resource directory.
Ms. Arzoo Malik, special needs consultant and Inclusive environment developer from Canada explained the philosophy behind inclusion with different examples. Need of creating awareness amongst everyone in the society including school’s administration, teachers, students and parents was discussed to have successful Inclusive education setups. Participants of the webinar came up with different suggestions in this regard.
Report by: – ASM Coordinator Mrs. Nadia Riaz
Nadia Riaz, Special educator and Behavior therapist, explained what disabilities are, their types, Categories and classifications as per IDEA 2004. Need for creating awareness about disabilities was explained to create sense of empathy in society towards these differently abled people.Dr. Azra Rafiq, Consultant Paediatrician explained in detail about the prenatal, perinatal and childhood causes of disabilities and what preventive measures can be taken by parents to avoid such occurrences. She also discussed global statistics about persons with disabilities which shows 15% of total population comprises of disabled people. Role of well baby clinics in prevention of disabilities were also discussed at primary, secondary and tertiary level.
Dr. Salma Khalil from ASDWT shared about Sindh Empowerment Act for Persons with Disabilities 2018
Report by: – ASM Coordinator Mrs. Nadia Riaz
“CIRCLE TIME”
FOR ENHANCING SPEECH, LANGUAGE AND COMMUNICATION:
“Circle Time is most important for managing the needs of children with all disabilities” Syed Naushad Shaukat, Senior speech therapist, audiologist and special educator. Parents can do it at their homes especially during these pandemic days when attendance in institutes is less. Differences between speech, communication and language needs to be recognized and speech and language delays or disorders must be dealt under guidance from professionals.
Participants from different parts of the world shared their views.
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Report on a webinar organized under the ages of Konpal Child Abuse Prevention Society in collaboration with Autism Without Borders (AWB),
Pakistan centre for Autism (PCA) and PPA regarding
RAISING AWARENESS ABOUT AUTISM
On 24th October, 2020 a grand webinar on raising awareness regarding ASD/ Autism was arranged by Konpal Child Abuse Prevention society in collaboration with AutismWithout
Borders, Pakistan Centre for Autism, Pakistan Pediatric Association (PPA Center, CRC & DBP). Dr. A.G.Billoo and Prof D.S.Akram graced the event with their presence as Chairpersons. The webinar was addressed by experts of the field. Dr. Aisha Mehnaz
represented Konpal and PPA; Dr. Shazia Maqbool (H.O.D, developmental pediatrician) represented Children Hospital Lahore, Ms. Aliya Batool was from PCA and ASM Project
director Dr. Azra Rafiq represented AutismWithoutBorders. It was attended by more than 80 healthcare providers and child caregivers from different parts of the world.
Dr. Aisha Mehnaz discussed child abuse and disability and their relationship. She emphasized on sensitizing HCPs and General Public about the safety issues affecting PWDs. She raised
the point that institutes are needed to have child safeguarding policies and standards.
Ms. Aliya Batool gave a brief introduction of Autism which is a neurodevelopmental disorder; explained its signs and symptoms e.g. Lack of eye contact, social communication, speech and language difficulties etc. The causes of ASD on which research is still going on
but they can be genetic or environmental. Thus due to increase in prevalence of Autism there is dire need of studying this subject and creating awareness about it.
Dr. Azra Rafiq elaborated on use of developmental screening and comprehensive diagnostic evaluation for screening ASD. She also emphasized on need of having well baby clinics where screening of Autism can be facilitated and train HCPs and child caregivers in using early screening tools e.g. M.CHAT and CAST.
Dr. Shazia Maqbool discussed other disorders which are often taken as Autism but they are beyond Autism e.g. Social communication disorder (SCD), Attention deficit hyperactivity
disorder (ADHD), Global Developmental Delay (GDD), Intellectual and learning disabilities etc. These were explained in a very detailed way through videos, which also explained that how interventions can prove to be effective for various disabilities. She also showed patients disease breakup of 2019 and discussed Role of pediatricians and parents for betterment of kids which lie under 4 group of disabilities and one which is emerging-more exposure to
screen.
Some major areas of concerns were highlighted by members of Pakistan Pediatric Association and different panellists from Pakistan and USA including Prof Mumtaz Lakhani, Dr. Tufail Muhammad, Dr. Ayesha Sarwat. All of them emphasized on the right of survival,
protection, therapies and education for PWDs. Steps need to be taken for teachers’ training who will be dealing with Autistic kids. Government should make arrangements for free education and vocational training of these people like done in developed countries.
It was concluded that a set protocol should be followed for diagnosis and training of Autism and research in this area should also be facilitated. It was decided to arrange frequent sessions for parents and HCPs regarding Awareness of Autism and other related disabilities.
Report By: NADIA RIAZ
ASM Project Coordinator (Autism Without Borders)
You can watch the session on given link
https://www.facebook.com/Konpal.caps/videos/1035733630208548/
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LAUNCHING OF ASM PROJECT (Autism Surveillance and Management)AT SAMBROS HOSPITAL KARACHI
Sambros Hospital ASM Project launching session was conducted on 30th September 2020 in collaboration with Autism Without Borders on ZOOM.
Dr. Azra Rafiq, ASM Project Director, briefly explained project and emphasized bridging the gap among doctors, special educators and care givers. She also elaborated the need for Autism Resource Directory that will help in finding appropriate institute and services as per their needs.
Mrs Sajida Ali, keynote speaker Director Pakistan Centre for Autism Karachi explained the history of Autism, its Red Flags (difficulty in social interaction/ communication, restricted, repetitive behaviour), causes and intervention. She also showed a video to clarify signs of Autism in infants.
Dr. Sami Ahmed, Director Sambros Hospital appreciated the launching of project because of its increasing prevalence. 45 participants attended the session including doctors, nurses and other staff of Sambros hospital.
Report by: – ASM Coordinator Mrs. Nadia Riaz
ZMT Preventive Pediatrics
AUTISM SURVEILLANCE AND MANAGEMENT PROJECT
The 5th SESSION OF ASM PROJECT
This session which was totally based on “Participants’ queries and concerns regarding Autism Spectrum Disorder” was done under
Preventive Pediatric program arranged by Rawalpindi and Islamabad team. It was attended by parents, educators, therapists and doctors from different parts of the world.
It was 5th session of ‘Autism Surveillance and Management’; project (ASM) held on 5th September 2020 in collaboration with Autism without borders on ZOOM.
Ms. Nadia Riaz, ASM Project Coordinator, briefly explained project and why there is need of creating awareness regarding this
neurological disorder, Autism. She also elaborated that how people can volunteer and play their part in this noble cause.
Keynote Speaker Mrs Shams un Nisa, Speech & language therapist, psychologist and special educator addressed to parents’ queries in detail. Practical strategies were explained to child caregivers in whom they face difficulties like how to increase attention and sitting span of child, what activities can be done at home and institute to enhance social interaction, manage hyperactivity and improve communication skills.
Dr. Azra Rafiq, ASM project director and some other professionals also graced the session with their presence, their valuable input
with respect to screen time exposure which is a great concern these days, clarified parents’ doubts. Dr. Azra put forward her plan to
arrange sessions for other disabilities too as per participants’ demand. On whole it came out to be a fruitful session, accomplishing the goals for which it was arranged.
Report by: – ASM Coordinator Mrs. Nadia Riaz
4 th SESSION OF ASM PROJECT
This session on ‘Strategies to deal with issues related Autism Spectrum Disorder’ which was done under Preventive Pediatric program arranged by Rawalpindi and Islamabad team; was
attended by parents, educators, therapists and doctors from different parts of the world. It was 4 th session of "Autism Surveillance and Management' project (ASM) held on 12 th August 2020 in collaboration with Autism without borders on ZOOM.
Dr Azra Rafiq, ASM Project director, briefly describe the signs and symptoms of autism and special emphasis on developmental screening along with growth monitoring.
Keynote Speaker Mrs Shams un Nisa, Speech & language therapist, psychologist and special educator highlighted different levels on which a child should be assessed including communication, social, intellectual, behavioral, command following, interest and safety. She explained in very simple and easy to understand language that how parents can assess these levels. Practical strategies were explained to child caregivers in whom they face difficulties like how to increase attention and sitting span of child, what activities can be done at home and institute to enhance social interaction, play and communication skills.
This presentation was followed by Question and Answer session where almost all queries from ‘participants were addressed.
Report by:- ASM Coordinator Mrs. Nadia Riaz
News Bulletin
Yes, people are waking up and so is the prevalence of Autism. What this means?? Till you do not know regarding the characteristics, signs and symptoms of a disability how can you identify it!
Most of the time Autism remains undiagnosed for years due to non-availability of early screening and diagnostic tools, less awareness amongst healthcare providers and childcare givers. Dr. Azra referred to the statistics from South Asia which estimate that there may be 350,000 children with Autism in Pakistan but the number of facilities required to tackle this gigantic challenge are almost nonexistent.
In this regards ZMT Clinic Network has started preventive pediatric project aiming at HEALTHY CHILDREN HEALTHY NATION. Preventive pediatrics is all about prevention of disease and promotion of physical, mental and social wellbeing of children.
Present project Autism awareness and Management is focusing on creating mass awareness and providing tools for mothers, caregivers, educators, healthcare providers so that early diagnosis and referrals can be done to prevent a number of disabilities and improve learning capabilities.
The stakeholders are proving without borders concept by inviting speakers and participants from all over the world. The aim is to provide education and support services to persons with autism and their caregivers. Belief is that A person with Autism can learn to do almost anything, anyone else can.
First Zoom session for this purpose with title “Autism awareness and Management” for health care providers was conducted on 11th June 2020. More than 70 health care providers attended the sessions including 60 doctors from different parts of the world. Key speaker was Mrs. Sajida Ali, Senior Special Educator and Director Pakistan Centre for Autism, Karachi followed by introduction and thoughtful discussion with Nadia Riaz, Special Educator from Islamabad. Dr. Azra Rafiq was the focal person with Dr. Fauzia as a moderator. Dr. Azra started with introduction of project regarding mental wellbeing of children and role of pediatricians in screening issues in toddlers and children. Mrs. Sajida Ali explained in detail regarding what is Autism, its causes, characteristics and red flags which was followed by discussion from Mrs. Nadia Riaz who shared her journey that how she entered in this field, her experience as mother of a 6 year old child with autism. She elaborated how in the wake of this Covid 19 pandemic autistic children’s can be compensated through telemedicine practice and parental counseling for home-schooling for which she is rendering her services.
In the second session held on 1st July 2020, on zoom the main topics of discussion was “Role of professionals in Autism”. Keynote speaker was Mrs. Nadia Riaz, Special Educator, Behavior Therapist and specialized in teletherapy, who is managing an institute with the name of ‘Special Care’ in Rawalpindi. Chairperson was Prof. Dr. Aisha Mehnaz, a well-known pediatrician of Pakistan. Session started with brief introduction regarding the projects by Dr. Azra Rafiq and she explained regarding the role of pediatricians, psychologist and neurologists in screening and diagnosing Autism. Ms. Nadia carried forward the discussion by explaining the entire journey from identification of problem to intervention and maintaining progress. She explained about the multidisciplinary team, their role. As team work makes the team work so how child caregivers, psychologist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, behavior therapist, social worker and special educator can work in collaboration for the benefit of Autistic children and which of the issues they cater in Autism. She elaborated the functions of behavior, their identification and designing an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) for autistic children as it is a well known saying
“If you know one child with Autism, you only know one child with Autism”
Prof. Aisha Mehnaz emphasized the need for designing early screening tools and providing its knowledge to the health care providers. Many thought-provoking questions came forward from the participants who joined the session from different parts of the world. They also emphasized the need of establishing such centers at least in all main cities of Pakistan where necessary facilities can be provided for autistic children and adults under one roof with easily affordable rates. The suggestion was forwarded to link screening of issues like autism with childhood vaccine schedule so that early diagnosis can lead to early intervention.
Next session on “Screening tools before diagnosis” will be held on 8th July 2020.
So the journey has just started and there is a long way to go in creating awareness on this much needed topic. We wish more and more people and organizations should come forward and present their contribution in this Noble cause.
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ZMT clinic network in collaboration with Autism Without Borders