Providing lifespan services to individuals with special needs...
Strides Newsletter - February 2024 - Issue 212
Counseling & Assessments
From Radhika Sasankh's Desk
....
Early Intervention and V-Excel Remedial Centre
From the staff of Early Intervention and V-Excel Remedial Centre
Greetings from Early Intervention and the Remedial Unit!
Pay Auttention: Experiential Learning Programme
• Pay Auttention: Experiential Learning Programme – As part of TATA Power's Pay Auttention Project, a 3-day learning programme was conducted for NGO Administrators, Special educators, and volunteers at CADRRE, Trivandrum, from February 6th to 8th, 2024..Representatives from the Early Intervention and V-Excel Remedial Centre attended it.
The outline of the experiential learning programme was as follows:
o Day 1: Getting to work with the preschool group (ages 3-6) at the PMG Center
o Day 2: Getting to work with the junior group (ages 7–10) at the Sasthamangalam Centre and getting to observe a mock autism assessment session
o Day 3: Getting to work with the pre-teens and teen groups (ages 11–16) at the Sasthamangalam Centre and with the skills and employability training group (ages 18 and above) at the Vazhuthacaud Centre.It was truly an experiential and useful one.
Field-trip to the Sensory Park
We have been trying to give our children exposure to the outside world and also experience the facilities that are available for children with special needs, initiated by the government. The sensory parks built by the Chennai Smart City project have specially designed infrastructure to cater to the special needs of the differently-abled children of the city. The infrastructure is so designed to stimulate the different sensory organs of the participants, giving them a one-of-a-kind experience. We took our children to the park at Kotturpuram on February 10, 2024. We started at around 8:00 a.m. and came back by 12:00 p.m. The children were given an orientation regarding the whole trip. As soon as they reached the park, we could see them all beaming with smiles. This served as a good platform for us to understand the improvement brought about in the following areas:
1. Following instructions
2. Name calling
3. Conforming to boundaries
4. Eating, sharing, and cleaning
5. Being aware and careful of hazards
All of them behaved so well and posed with their best smile for the photos, which are clear from the pictures attached. The feedback from the parents has been really encouraging for us to plan more of these outings.
Resource Room
As part of our collaboration with Cathedral Free Primary School, a resource room was setup on the premises of the school on February 12, 2024. Mr. Arun Kumar Ashokarajan, Occupational Therapist, and Mr. Surya Suresh, Social Worker, Early Intervention and Remedial Unit, V-Excel Educational Trust set up the resource room for engaging the screened children in therapeutic and remedial interventions.
Physical fitness
A training session was conducted on the 16th of February 2024, by Mr. Mujibur Rahman Ayub, Occupational Therapist, EI/VRC, on 'Physical fitness'.
The session began with a question on what fitness meant in general, in that it means to be able to do activities of daily living without difficulty or strain.This was followed by a brief sharing, the pre-requisites for being fit that included getting adequate sleep at night, eating adequately, engaging in mild to vigorous exercises, and getting adequate rest.
Some of the hindrances or difficulties that one may experience while engaging in a movement could be a result of one or more of the following: limitation of movement, pain, breathing (cardiorespiratory endurance), muscular strength, body composition, muscular endurance, and flexibility (mobility). The above-mentioned components attribute to an individual's fitness.
Physical exercise helps build/improve with following: endurance (cardio muscular and cardiorespiratory), strength, balance, and flexibility.
The last portion of the session covered a few tests/exercises that measured how fit an individual is and how they could improve the same like the plank, push-up, sit-to-reach, overhead squat, shoulder mobility, and wall-squat. The tests included waist-hip ratio and body-size evaluation.
Kaleidoscope Learning Centre
From Shashikala Subramaniam's Desk
Love is the willingness to listen to the ebb and flow, pause and pulse of two hearts in rhythm and conversation.
- Sabari
February month, KLC was bustling with activities related to the curriculum, celebrations, main lesson related trips, new initiatives, success stories and the list goes on.
Internship at Writer's Cafe
Rekha, a senior student who learns and works efficiently and consistently and one of our star students, has got a chance to intern at Writer's Cafe, under their training program for special under privileged students. This is the first time that a student from KLC has stepped out into the world. After a lot of handholding and awareness building Rekha has settled into her internship. Her teachers had visited the Cafe, and she was proud to serve them. Thanks to the management of Writer's Cafe for encouraging these students and improving their belief in themselves and a light at the end of the tunnel for the parents.
V-Excel Family's Celebration
Lavanya Ashok, Coordinator of our Early Intervention Unit celebrated Bhaargav Ashok, her son's, Upanayana. A few of KLC teachers attended the function and blessed the young man.
Birthday Celebration of a precious Assistant Teacher, in TATVA School
Aaqila, a senior student in KLC has been training to be an Assistant Teacher in regular Waldorf school in the last 2 years, after initially working with the kindergarten children in KLC. She works with Puja in Class 3, with 16 students, 2 days a week. Her work is very therapeutic, calming and the children love her. She celebrated her birthday recently and every student in her class had written a beautiful message of what she meant to them, on her birthday greeting card. Aaqila's parents were touched to see how their daughter's work impacted her students.
Main lesson Work and related activities in classes
Senior School Block is the Story of Princess Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, along with learning good manners and etiquette. The whole day's activity was integrated around the story - the morning circle, the movements, drawing – both form and perspective, the vocations, the activities – cooking a meal, eating it on a set table, learning and performing a dance....
The students and teachers of 'Stirring hearts' went for an outing to Chetpet Eco park, as part of their curriculum. The class is doing a block on ancient Egypt. The Eco Park was a beautiful experience for the children. They enjoyed the serene surroundings and quiet boat ride with utmost joy and happiness. The greenery around the lake and a small flock of ducks following every boat ride was an amazing visual for the children to hold as a memory. A bonus for the children at the Eco park was an aquarium.
Bringing Egypt through their cuisine was another very interesting experience for the children of stirring hearts. This block, they made 'Kosheri'. A rice dish made with chickpeas and fried onions. This was the first time the children made masalas from scratch to put in the Kosheri. The whole assembling process was a sight to see, as every child watched in awe how each of their individual works took shape into a flavorful delicacy.
The children and teachers of grade 3 prepared Tomato soup as part of their curriculum work. Quietly some of them peeled carrots and onions, some cut the tomatoes, some onions and one child pounded pepper for the soup. Each child took turns in the various activities of making the soup. Finally garnishing the soup with coriander, they all went back to their class with a smile and pride up their sleeve to share it with others and drank it with their lunch.
The gardening/farming vocation students visited Semmozhi Poonga, Teynampet to watch the flower show organised by the Horticultural Department of Tamil Nadu government. The flower arrangements in the garden grown for the show looked beautiful, and the students were in awe to see the work of nature. Their small consistent and diligent efforts around the school building had seen a crop of Methi leaves, which they had harvested and taken home to show to their parents.
Inter – School competition – Javate 2024
On February 10th Saturday, Lady Andal School, Chetpet conducted their annual inter – school competition for special schools in which 10 of our students participated in various competitions – drawing, group dances and talent show. It was a good experience for the students to display their talents and participate in the competitions.
Skating Master Mano weds Saranya
Mano master who teaches and works with the students for skating classes in school, got married. His calm attitude and gentleness with our students make him a favourite among them. All the parents and staff of the school sent their best wishes for a happy married life. As the wedding was not in Chennai, nobody could attend it. So, we invited Saranya and him to KLC on a Friday evening during our meeting time, for a snack, wished them and gave them their wedding gift.
A new initiative in Tarang of February
Kaushik, Vishwas and Visswesh were the artists who performed in Tarang this month. The Mandolin was the new instrument introduced to the audience in this series. It was a beautiful program enjoyed by the students. What made it unique was the presence of students from Indradhanu School. 16 students and 3 teachers joined us in enjoying the music and performance. We look forward to having them with us for all the future Tarang programs and wish that more and more special schools would bring in their students to enjoy it with us.
An Ode to a precious departed soul
Mrs. Margaret Buch was a vocational trainer par excellence in VTU. Her work with the trainees was exquisite and she always made sure that the quality of the finished product was perfect even if done by the special trainee. A memorial was held in her remembrance at VTU, where everyone talked about her. From KLC, Neha and Shashi attended it. Neha sang "Love Can build a Bridge" as a farewell to her.
Biodynamic farming an introduction
Dr. Lakshmi, along with Lohith, a young and passionate biodynamic farmer from Bangalore, offered an introductory session on Biodynamic Farming, its origin, application and significance at TATVA school. Biodynamic agriculture is an ecological and sustainable approach to farming that views the farm as a self-sustaining, interconnected living organism. Many teachers from KLC attended this talk as farming is one of our vocations for the senior students.
Wishes and Blessings full of Love for a Precious One
Puja, teacher, therapist, confidant of the children, is getting married to Elvis and it was celebration time at KLC. Every child, teacher and staff of KLC showered their love, wishes and blessings on her in a beautiful, calm, ceremony. A few glimpses of the celebration.
V-Excel Educational Trust
Pay Autention: Experiential Learning Programme
As part of TATA Power's Pay Autention Project, a 3-day learning programme was conducted for NGO Administrators, Special educators, and volunteers at CADRRE, Trivandrum, from February 6th to 8th, 2024.
The participants were split into batches of 3–4 (a total of 12 batches) to engage in the sessions, where they got to shadow the therapists at CADRRE while they worked with the children at The Autism School across the three centers.
Representatives from the Early Intervention and V-Excel Remedial Centre for the learning programme included Unit Heads Ms. Lekshmi Ramesh, Ms. Mary Stella Arulraj -Special Educator, Ms. Sasikala Kajendran - Occupational Therapist, and Ms. Shobana - Administrator.
It was an excellent experience and opportunity to learn the different methods of intervention, programs, and structure. We are thankful to Mr. Vijayaraghavan, the Honorary Director -CADRRE, the co-coordinators of the CADRRE centers and Tata Power PAY AUTENTION team for the arrangements and hospitality.
International Conference
The International Conference on "Inclusion and Integration of Persons with Disabilities across the Lifespan" was organized by the Manipal College of Health Professions (MCHP) and Amar Seva Sangam (ASSA) on 12th February and 13th February 2024.
Ms. Gayathri Suryanarayanan, the Center Coordinator of the Youth Empowerment Services Unit (Mylapore), presented a paper on the Effective Processes for the Inclusion of Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities in Transitioning to Open Employment. Her paper covered the steps and challenges involved in open employment of such individuals and was based on experiential evidence. The presentation was well-received and appreciated by the panel of judges and the audience.
A trip to Sensory Park
Nothing is more satisfying and encouraging than seeing happy faces. This was the outcome of our small outing planned for children from Early Intervention and Remedial Unit of V-Excel. We went to the park at Kotturpuram on 10th February at 8 am and returned by noon. 7 children and 5 EI staff.
We have been trying to expose them to the outside world. The sensory parks built by the Chennai Smart City project have specially designed infrastructure to cater to the special needs of the differently-abled children of the city. They stimulate different sensory organs of the participants, giving them one of its kind experience.
The children were given an orientation regarding the whole trip. On reaching the park, they were all beaming with smiles and waiting to explore. The park had seperate areas designed for each sensory aspect. They started with freeplay. Through this we could gauge the improvement in the areas of- following instructions, name calling, conforming to boundaries, eating, sharing and their awareness of hazards and being careful.
A very fulfilling morning and surely we returned encouraged to plan many more meaningful outings for our young community.
Margaret Buch will be remembered - forever!🙏
We regret to inform that our dear 87 years old volunteer for 15 years has shed her mortal body on 15-February-2024 morning @2.30 a.m.
Margaret Buch joined us as a volunteer in 2007, in Vocational Training Unit, Shastrinagar.
A person with amazing skills at her fingertips, she designed and created products to be trained on ,for our Neuro divergent group based on the trainees capabilities. It was "no compromise in quality" for Margaret. Her meticulous methods of training and keen eye for QC has been our guide and tutor. She has never minced words to please us, always made sure we put out THE BEST.
"A spirited magnanimous woman with eye for perfection and brain full of innovation." as described by an associate.
Always smiling, graceful, passionate, compassionate, she had a special grace for sharing knowledge which she did till her last breath.
We submit the pride of VTU training and production at her feet and seek the Blessings of the departed soul.
Om Shanthi🙏
Tarang musical concert
The monthly Tarang concert held on Thursday, 15th February, 2024 at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan (BVB), Mylapore from 2:00 to 3.00 p.m.
The theme of the event was Moods of Mandolin, performed by Viswas Hari - Mandolin, Kaushik Sridharan - Vocals, Visswesh Vichu - Mridangam & Rhythm Pads.
Click here to watch Tarang on YouTube.
CSR Initiative to set up an Early Intervention and Remedial Center
V-Excel has signed an MoU with Rasee Charitable Trust, Chennai with the support of Super Auto Forge Company's CSR Initiative to set up an Early Intervention and Remedial Center for Children with Special Needs in Unamancheri village, off. Kelambakkam-Vandalur High Road, Chennai. In this regard, a Bhoomi pooja for the construction of the building was conducted on 24th Feb 2024. The Center is expected to function from June 2024 and will provide special education & therapy services free of cost to the beneficiaries.
CSR project
The Early Intervention & Remedial Services Unit of V-Excel is working with Tata Power as part of the CSR project FY 2023-24 in Tirunelveli to sensitize Anganwadi's & health workers on special needs. In this regard, Tata Power invited V-Excel members & sponsors to participate in the Purple Fest 2024, celebrated at Rashtrapathi Bhavan, New Delhi 26th Feb 2024, as a special invite under the aegis of the Pay Autention network.
Purple Fest was organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, and Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities, and the event witnessed over 10 thousand Divyangjan and their escorts gathered at this majestic venue, fostering bonds of solidarity and mutual respect. The Honourable President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu graced the occasion with her support and encouragement. Children with disabilities, accompanied by their teachers and parents, were invited to Amrit Udyaan exclusively for a memorable experience, further enriching the day's festivities.
VTU Annual Outstation Trip to Sringeri and Horanadu
When there are blessings of the Acharya there is a lot of protection and everything is orderly. Such was the experience of VTU, who had an amazing trip with Divine blessings, adventure and experiential learning.
10 trainees and 8 teachers/staff started this trip on Tuesday, 27th Feb 2024 and receached back on Saturday, 2nd Mar 2024.
They went to Singeri with 10 trainees and 7 staff/teachers.
Their flight to Bangalore was very comfortable with constant support and care of the Indigo staff. Trainees did darshan of Goddess Sharada, both Acharya's blessed trainees individually and took time to appreciate all the products made by them.
All had a good stay in the Parampara Resort in Horanadu and went for a 2 km trek. After all the fun there were last minute challenges with transport, just before reaching Chennai. With all the protection and blessings things couldnot have gone wrong. They got a great Travel agency who understood the challenge. They arranged a Starlink bus. The owner made 5 passengers wait till our group settled in the bus. Much gratitude to him. All reached home comfortably and happy.
A special and memorable trip indeed.
Satellite Centers
From Jayanthi Vishwanath in Nashik
Lunch Party
On 3rd February, BLA Teachers hosted a vibrant Lunch Party for V-Excel Staff, A Welcome Break from Work Stress.
In a heartwarming gesture of camaraderie and appreciation, teachers from BLA (Bright Learning Academy) organized a delightful Lunch party. Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily work routines, this gathering served as a much-needed break, fostering bonds beyond professional boundaries, sparking smiles and laughter from all the attendees.
Commencement of the NIOS OBE (Open Basic Education) exams
On 6th February 2024, we are thrilled to announce the commencement of the NIOS OBE (Open Basic Education) exams at our esteemed educational center Bridges Learning Academy (BLA). As the exam days dawn upon us, we witness an atmosphere with anticipation and determination as our students gear up to conquer their academic milestones.
Goonj Foundation Hosts heartwarming Fun Fair for Special Children
On 13th February-2024, Goonj Foundation Hosts heartwarming Fun Fair for Special Children, Three Centres Unite in Funfair.
Goonj Foundation organized a delightful fun fair catering specifically for special children.
From the moment the gates opened, the air was filled with laughter and excitement as children indulged in an array of treats and entertainment. The aroma of delectable food, candy, chocolates, and Savory delights, puppet show and activities to suit the diverse interests and abilities of the children, creating moments of joy and belonging for our special children.
Through the collective efforts of Goonj Foundation and the unwavering support of volunteers, sponsors and the school staff the fun fair left a lasting impact, igniting sparks of happiness in the hearts of all who attended.
14th February Basant Panchami
Teachers and Students came together to observe Saraswati Puja, a cherished Hindu tradition worshipping the goddess of knowledge, music, and arts. Amidst chants and prayers, the school's faculty and enthusiastic students, offered flowers, incense, and sweets to the sacred deity. All the devotees sought blessings for wisdom, creativity, and academic success in their pursuits.
17th Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti
17th February Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti reverently celebrated across all three center's, to pay tribute to courageous Maratha King.
Draped in the attire of Shivaji Maharaj and his mother, Jijabai, students passionately enacted pivotal scenes from the life of the legendary king, The student's performance with triumphant chants paid tribute to the noble ideals and courageous endeavours upheld by Shivaji Maharaj.
District-Level Sports Competition
On 24th February, students of V-Excel Shine Bright: Bag 20 Medals, Including 6 Gold, at District-Level Sports Competition.
Students from all three center's of V-Excel have emerged victorious at the district-Level Sports competition held on the 24th of February. Despite facing unique challenges, these resilient individuals showcased their talent, clinching a total of 20 medals, with an outstanding tally of 6 gold medals among them.
BLA Secures Four Gold Medals, and VLC Centre contributed two gold medals.
The combined success of these students symbolizes their dedication and perseverance to go beyond the barriers and celebrate their abilities.
We applaud their remarkable accomplishment and continue to support this individual to thrive and excel.
Marathi Divas Celebration
On 27th February-2024, Marathi Divas celebration at all the three centres enriched by student's renditions of poems and rhymes to pay tribute to the literary tradition of Maharashtra.
Marathi Divas at V-Excel, Nashik is celebrated for inspiring appreciation for the language, literature, and culture of Maharashtra.
National Science Day
On 28th February-2024, National Science Day celebrated with engaging educational activities to make the students aware about the remarkable advancements in the field of science.
Erode
We conducted a Science Expo on 29th February 2024 in our Center. Separate activities for the Primary Group and Pre Vocational group were planned. The students were individually trained on explaining about the experiments. The whole place was changed into an exhibition hall converting the available things and furniture. The students and staff were involved in the arrangements and it took almost half a day in setting up. The parents were invited for the exhibition. Altogether around 14 experiments were demonstrated. The parents were really surprised to see their wards explaining and it was so heartening to see the children who had challenges in expression and social skills speaking with confidence.
The models done as a part of the Pre–Vocational activities were:
1. Wind mill
2. Functions of Lungs
3. Phases of Moon
4. Different types of scales
5. Experiments for the solubility in solutions
6. Explaining the magnetic force
7. Robotic hand making
Primary Group:
1. Community helpers
2. Different modes of transport
3. Sources of water
4. Bio-degradable, Bio gradable things
5. Sense organs
6. Parts of plants
7. Experiments on three states of matter
Tirunelveli
Group activities
We planned for group gardening activities for our students. The children were given an orientation regarding the steps like digging the soil, sowing the seeds, germination, watering, and also adding the right manure. The students were all very enthusiastic and took ownership for the care of the plants assigned to them. These experiences were transferred to their learning by making them colour,match and write all about it.
As many of our students are not trained in ADL's when they are admitted , goals were set primarily working on brushing, personal hygiene and eating . We also focus on training them on fine motor activities like beading, sticking and clay modelling.
Solapur
Dance performance by the V-Excel students on 6th February
The district level dance competition was held by the samaj kalyan organization on 6th February. It was a proud moment for the V-Excel Centre to share that our 3 students participated in this competition.
They are sensitive to loud music and special effects of lights, flashing lights and sudden change in the environment can be overwhelming for students. these distractions our students performed on stage fearlessly. It can be a transformative experience to them. It provides an opportunity to enjoy a cultural experience together in a comfortable and inclusive environment, which can boost their self-esteem and confidence. It also promotes social interaction and communication skills. It is one of our achievement's. Thanks to all teachers and parents who helped prepare the dance performance of students.
Disha Sir Visit on 12th February
Disha Sir Vikas Pawar gave a surprise visit to our V-Excel Centre. He visited all classes and observed whether classes are conducted as per time table and observed if the syllabus of Disha is teaching as per VAKT method. After Sir took a meeting of teachers in which he mentioned some changes in time according to the age group of students and addressed teachers to go through the manual of Disha, work sheets, check lists etc.
This surprise visit of Disha Sir is a good experience for our V-Excel Centre.
Fort Visit on 19th February
The Charm of a School Picnic
The school picnic, an event often looked forward to with bubbling excitement, is a delightful deviation from the routine. The thrill of hopping onto a bus with friends; it's about creating memories, learning outside the classroom, and experiencing the world in a tangible manner. While textbooks provide knowledge, experiences cement that knowledge. Visiting a historical site, for instance, brings history lessons to life.
In February month Shivjayanti is celebrated throughout Maharashtra. On that occasion our V-Excel vocational students took a one day picnic at Naladurg fort along with teachers. Students enjoyed various games in the garden. The teacher explained about the fort motive of this outing to make students aware about the fort about Shivaji Maharaj. Later students enjoyed a delicious lunch. Students were very thankful to teachers arranging such a memorable day out. All students reached home safely, filled with joy and excitement.
Shiv Jayanti on 19th February
This festival is celebrated on February 19, celebrating the birth anniversary of Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the first Chhatrapati of the Marathas. He established Hindavi Swarajya. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, known for his bravery, leadership, and administrative skills, is celebrated as a heroic figure in Indian history. He founded the Maratha Empire and is particularly remembered for his military strength, innovative strategies, and his vision of Hindavi Swarajya, which means self-rule for the people of the Indian subcontinent. Shivaji Jayanti is marked with various cultural programs, processions, and events that honor the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj.
On this occasion in our V-Excel Centre 19th February we celebrated shiv jayanti. Our early intervention kids came with balshivaji costumes n we conducted various activities like crafts, making talwar n made drawing of Shivaji patake. Slogan was Jai Shivaji, Jai Bhavani and later sweets were distributed to make children aware of the life and good deeds of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Abhyasa Kendra, Srirangam
Yoga sessions
Our Center provides yoga sessions for the Vocational Training Unit Students on alternate weekdays (Monday, Wednesday & Friday) and 1st, 3rd, and 5th Saturdays (Sports activities). Asana is one of the eight limbs of classical Yoga and states that poses should be steady and comfortable, firm yet relaxed. The yoga asanas gently encourage us to become more aware of our body, mind, and environment.
Occupational therapists work with people and communities to enhance their ability to engage in the occupations they want to, need to, or are expected to do, or by modifying the occupation and /or the environment to better support their occupational engagement.
As a part of an ongoing program for our students, all our staff were trained in conducting the activities that incorporates the goodness of yoga, therapy and the exercises. This facilitates the students to be engaged in physical fitness activities throughout the week.
From Outreach Remedial Center, Pollachi
Parents Teachers Meeting
On 25th February 2024, we conducted parent teachers meeting to foster effective communication and to orient the parents about the academic performance of the students after NIOS OBE exams. We are glad that we got positive feedback from all the parents.
AMS School Career Guidance
AMS school carrer guidance session on 24 Febuary 2024 for 10th and 12th grade students on Career Perspectives in Humanities- A road less traveled.Dr. Manju, discussed about Rehabilitation Professionals, the need, scope and career oppurtunities along with eligibility criteria and higher education institutions providing such courses in Tamilnadu. 80 students were benefited by this programme.
Training Program For Primary School Teachers
Early intervention training program for primary school teacher of RKR Matric Hr. Sec School Udumalpet on 27.02.2024. Dr. Manju, discussed about the red flags seen among students with delayed developments and learning difficulties at pre primary and primary level. 30 primary school and teachers were benefited through this program.
Sensory Integration Program
Sensory integration training program was held at our center by OT therapist, Dr. Prasanna Kumari for our therapist and remedial faculty. A discussion was held on the basics of sensory processing and classification, based on 07 senses. Various interventions and therapy were shared in the session.
Soap Making Session For Vydehi School
Soap making session was conducted to the special educators of Vydehi school,Bangalore, by our vocational trainer Ms. Dharshini on 03-Feb-2024 through google meet.
From Ananda Karuna Vidyalalyam, Ambattur
Greetings from Ananda Karuna Vidyalayam!
Feb 3, 2024: Organic Farming
For the students and Teachers organic farming class demo by Mr. Venugopal.
Feb 5, 2024:
Team of teachers with Mrs. Radha Ganesan of Swabodhini Special School visited Anandam.
Feb 10, 2024:
Team of doctors from paediatric department of Ramachandra visited with 25 members for the screening and diagnosis for special children in various specialities.
Feb 12, 2024:
The correspondent and principal of Peniel Group of Institutions Madurai visited our school.
Feb 15, 2024:
Student Band class started from 15th February.
Feb 16, 2024:
Second batch of Tailoring, Aari, and Computer classes to empower parents and teachers started on 16th February.
Feb 18, 2024:
Students were taken to the reception of musician Sai Vignesh.
Feb 23, 2024:
Mrs. Aasha Palani Kumar of Vidhyasagar visited our school and spend half a day with all children and teachers. She gave valued inputs to enhance our skills.
From Therapy & Learning Centre, Pandharpur
We started group sessions for our children to facilitate interaction with other children and to teach them to follow instructions.
On February 22, 10 children were given Swarna Bindu Prashana. (SBP) is a metallic medicinal preparation widely used in Ayurveda pediatrics. The main ingredients of SBP are swarna prashan (gold nanoparticle), gou ghrita (cow ghee), madhu (honey), and other medhya dravyas (drugs which enhance intellectual, memory).
Dr. Patil joined us as a physiotherapist and his services are now available in our Pandharpur branch.
Vocational Training Unit
From Charumathi Sriram's Desk
February month began with wonderful and fruitful workshop for our trainees on Awareness of using social media by Research Scholar of Anna University and ended with leaving for our Annual Outstation Experiential trip.
Mid-February we lost our dear volunteer Ms. Margaret Buch (87 years)
Media Literacy Awareness Among Young Adults Of Autism Spectrum On 1st Feb 2024 At Anna University Campus
A research scholar Ms.Tendral Rajagopal from the Media Sciences Department at Anna University, Chennai along with her guide, Dr. Velayutham Chandrashekaran (Assistant professor, Media Sciences Department, Anna University), approached us to conduct workshop on media literacy awareness about young adults under ASD. They were interested in studying with an aim to empower young adults falling in the autism spectrum with media literacy. Their aim was to encourage their active participation in creating, consuming, and disseminating media information.
Trainees along with the teachers and staff went to the Anna University Campus to have an experience of college campus and classroom. From VTU we had selected 10 trainees who could comprehend and fill the questionnaire after the session. Ms. Tendral had put together a session that was clear and understandable for our trainees. All students of her department helped our trainees to fill in the questionnaire and they were able to relate to lot of questions and replied, some even filled it as it was objective based.
It was very useful and need of the hour for our trainees and was conducted at the YES center too. We had recommended it to the activity unit of Grundfos Pumps.
Loss of long time volunteer of VTU on 14th Feb 2024 - Ms. Margaret buch
V-Excel lost our long-time volunteer Ms. Margaret Buch on 14th Feb 2024 due to cardiac arrest. She worked till her last breath with our trainees at VTU. She was unfailingly with us from 10.00 am to 12.30 pm. every day. She was part of all the VTU field trips and programs. V-Excel will miss an inspiring and positive person.
About Ms. Margaret:
Margaret Buch joined us as a volunteer in 2007 in Vocational Training Unit, Shastri Nagar. A person with amazing skills at her fingertips, she designed and created products to be trained on, for our Neuro divergent group based on the trainees’ capabilities.
• It was “no compromise in quality” for Margaret. The Bhuj Perfectionist
• Her meticulous methods of training and keen eye for QC were our guide and tutor.
• She has never minced words to please us, always made sure we put out THE BEST.
We miss you Margaret Ma'am.
Memorial Service for Ms. Margaret Buch
VTU organized a memorial on 16th Feb 2024. Ms. Margaret Buch’s daughter and her grandson, and Unit heads of KLC and YES along with staff and teachers attended the from KLC and YES attended the service. Everyone spoke about her and work for the past 17 years.
Tarang at BVB on 15th Feb 2024
This month Tarang's theme was Moods of Mandolin performances by trio Vishwas Hari, Mandalin, Kaushik Sridharan on Vocals and Visswesh Vichu, Mridangam and Rhythm Pads. Trainees and students enjoyed the full program with various rhythm and vocal.
VTU Annual Trip From 27th To Mar 1st 2024 To Sringeri And Horanadu
Happy to share of 10 VTU trainees along with 7 staff/teachers had an amazing divine trip with adventure and experiential learning this year.
Day - 1
* Flight experience and airport tour at Bangalore for both trainees and a few staff were good. The Indigo staff were by us right from the entry point and till we landed at Mangalore. At Bangalore we were received by a staff Sruthi with a lovely handmade card.
* Window shopping and relaxing at the airport was the best experience.
* Drive from Mangalore to Sringeri in the evening was beautiful and trainees enjoyed the cool breeze with music inside the van
Day - 2
* Thanks to Siva and Gayathri who had arranged everything from accommodation to Dharshan of Acharya.
* Trainees had good Dharshan of goddess Sharada and of Sanidhanam twice and got blessings individually.
* Evening we had Dharshan of Maha Sanidhanam and both the Acharyas took time to appreciate all our products.
* Sanidhanam recognised us and asked V-Excel? Thanks to Anand and Siva whose regular interaction with the Mutt. has made a mark. Sannidhanam remembered visiting Nashik.
* He met each and every trainee and staff called out few of their names and gave Prasad.
* He gave ambal saree and shawl for all the staff as appreciation of service to special adults.
Day-3 & 4 - Horanadu Parampara Resort
* Thanks to Vasudha for suggesting we contact our trustee Radhakrishnan about accommodation at Horanadu. Special thanks to Radha for going out of if his way to make our stay at Parampara Resorts an enjoyable and memorable one.
* Stayed at Parampara resort, trek for 2 KMs at the coffee estate, visit to Annapoorni temple in a jeep was an adventure. Karnataka style Dinner with campfire
* Left for Bangalore from Horanadu which was the longest drive on the ghat section.
* When we were 3.5 hrs away from the city a message from railways that our train was not going as scheduled put us in a frenzy of action.
* Meetings and calls, what next - Final decision was to take an AC sleeper bus. Being a weekend that was a challenge. When we explained about our situation and trainees, Jabbar travels took it upon themselves to arrange another bus Starlink, which was almost exclusive for us.
* The bus operator owner was so good that we have no words to express our gratitude. He made the other 5 passengers wait till our group settled in the bus.
* reached at 8.00 am in the morning and was dropped at Tidal Park. The bus operators in fact called in person to check on our safe arrival at Chennai.
This is the long..brief note on our special trip.
Vocational Activities/Functional Academics/Therapy/Counselling/Movement Dance Therapy
1. Vocational Activities
• VTU received orders from outside countries from group of women for tote bags, saree bags, beaded anklets, new product design of jewellery potli bags. Trainees and staff are working on the order with a target date.
2. Functional Academics
• Trainees and staff were oriented regarding the trip, travelling in aircraft, security check in, baggage claim etc. Uma showed trainess video clippings and explained every process.
3. Counselling/therapy/movement
• Counsellor had sessions with trainees, teachers, and parents
• Vasanth had therapy both individual and group.
• Movement therapy did not happen this month
Youth Empowerment Services
From Gayathri Suryanarayanan's Desk
Key highlights for the month of February 2024
• Vocational training, Counselling, Therapy and other fitness activities
• Intra vocational training for trainers
• Hybrid program for Akshara
• Participation in the International conference at Manipal university
• Review meetings for the Specialisterne project
• Field trip – Vandalur
• Participation in the Meet and Greet event of SNEH
Vocational training, Counselling, Therapy and other fitness activities
February was busy with regular vocational training, and it went as per the schedule. There were a few orders to be completed and trainees who are in the production and internship group actively participated. The training group was part of their usual training program.
Farm program, counseling and therapy services happened without any interruption.
Archery, Silambam, Yoga and Fitness programs are happening regularly.
The trainees under the internship program were also given handholding in counseling and workplace visits.
Intra Vocational Training
To work on efficiency and productivity, intra vocational training among the trainers was started in February. Laundry was the first vocation taken. Laundry trainers Yuvaraj, Guru and Prem elaborated and demonstrated all the activities happening at Laundry as a vocation. All the staff members attended the session and even tried their hands on using the steam iron machine and learned about various types of fabric.
This will continue with other vocations during all the working Saturdays for the next 2 months.
Hybrid training program
To make the training program reach out to people outside of Chennai, YES has introduced the hybrid model of the training program. Akshara, daughter of Dr. Nitya, Tiruvannamalai requested such a program to engage Akshara productively during the time she is in Chennai. Akshara will be attending YES for 1 or 2 weeks in a month, and she will be trained in activities that she can practice from her hometown also. A neatly structured program has been designed for her to suit her needs, interests and abilities. She joined in February, and she is already showing a bit of progress. Akshara is also getting trained in ADLs, personal hygiene and grooming.
Participation in International Conference at Manipal University
The International Conference on "Inclusion and Integration of Persons with Disabilities across the Lifespan" was organized by the Manipal College of Health Professions (MCHP) and Amar Seva Sangam (ASSA) on 12th February and 13th February 2024.
Ms. Gayathri Suryanarayanan, the Center Coordinator of the Youth Empowerment Services Unit (Mylapore), presented a paper on the Effective Processes for the Inclusion of Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities in Transitioning to Open Employment. Her paper covered the steps and challenges involved in open employment of such individuals and was based on experiential evidence. The presentation was well-received and appreciated by the panel of judges and the audience.
Review meetings for the Specialisterne project
On 19 and 21 February, review meetings happened with the Specialisterne team regarding the internship and effective engagement of the trainees who are part of the Employability training program.
On 19 February, Specialisterne team, Ms. Samapti and Ms. Usha and V-Excel team Ms. Ajita and Ms. Gayathri brainstormed about different internship opportunities for these trainees. They also discussed conducting mock interviews and cross trainer training sessions.
On 21 February both the Specialisterne and V-Excel teams met all the parents online and responded to their queries regarding the internship and selection process.
Field trip - Vandalur
On 22 February, 36 from YES went on a field trip to Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Vandalur. We reached the zoo around 11.30 and after a quick lunch we took the battery car service to go around the zoo. Despite the humid weather, trainees showed great enthusiasm and watched all the animals.
Participation in the Meet and Greet event of SNEH
YES, team was invited for the Meet and Greet event organised by SNEH. Gayathri Suryanarayanan represented YES and was recognised for all the YES products that are marketed through SNEH. It was also a great opportunity for networking.
