Gov’t targets special need children
THE MINISTRY of Education, Youth and Information is working with the Ministry of Labour and Social Security to reach more children with special needs.
Education Minister Ruel Reid, who spoke at the official opening of the $70-million Stimulation-Plus Early Childhood Centre in Rockfort, Kingston, last week, said the collaboration will ensure that all children who suffer from various disabilities or challenges receive the necessary early-intervention services.
He said he has requested data from the social security ministry to ascertain the number of underserved children across the island.
“We need to have that data so that we have everybody accounted for,” he noted.
Reid is encouraging parents not to be ashamed if their children have any kind of disability, noting that “it is just how God made them, and we need to give them more love and care so that they can become independent adults.”
He pointed out that with adequate early stimulation, they can make a meaningful contribution to society.
“Your child may be born with these challenges, but, with support, they can make something good of themselves,” the minister said.
Executive Director of the Early Stimulation Programme (ESP), Antonica Gunter Gayle, said the partnership between the two ministries is welcome, as many more children will be reached.
“This data that is requested by the minister is important in order for us to provide for them. Children with special needs have potential; they only need the opportunity. We ask that parents give them support to become the best that they can be,” Gunter Gayle said.
The Stimulation-Plus Early Childhood Centre, operated by the ESP, comprises seven classrooms, administrative offices, sickbay, physiotherapy room and specialised play area, among other amenities.
It was built through funding from the InterAmerican Development Bank.