Providing lifespan services to individuals with special needs...

World Autism Awareness Day

On 2nd April,2024, the staff and children of all the Centres, came dressed in blue to show support for autistic individuals on World Autism Awareness Day. Various games and activities were organized for the children to participate in and in spreading awareness and understanding of autism.

Gudipadwa Celebrations

On 8th April,2024, The Hindu New Year, Gudipadwa, was celebrated in all three centres, focusing on cultural education. At BLA, children watched short videos explaining the Hindu calendar and the festival's importance. Teachers also performed traditional rituals related to the festival, helping students connect with their cultural heritage.

Hindu Nav Varsh Swagat Yatra

On 9th April,2024, students from V-Excel participated in the Hindu Nav Varsh Swagat Yatra, donning the attire of Ram, Sita, Hanuman, and a few teachers to mark the arrival of the Hindu New Year. The event was a colorful celebration, symbolizing the spirit of the occasion. A variety of talents were on display as children from various institutions displayed traditional sport activities like Mallakhamb (gymnastics), along with numerous acts and games. The event was a lively showcase of the children's diverse skills and interests.

Third Annual day program of V-Excel, Nashik

On 20th April, 2024, the third Annual day program of V-Excel, Nashik, began with the Marathi prayer 'Heech Amchi Prarthana,' followed by guest introductions and the lighting of the lamp with inauguration of UDIT Rehabilitation foundation symbolizing a new era of hope and empowerment. The Ramleela performance by the students showcased various scenes, including the formation of the Ayodhya temple, Sita Swayamvar, 'Sita Haran' by Ravan, Hanuman Chalisa dance, and a depiction of the war between Ravan and Ram's forces.

From the enchanting formation of the Ayodhya temple to the gripping 'Sita Haran' by Ravan, every scene was brought to life with passion and precision by our students. The grand finale saw all students unite in a jubilant dance, echoing 'Bharat ka Baccha Baccha Jai Sri Ram Bolega.'

Unique Bouquets prepared with napkins were presented to our esteemed guests, whose heartfelt speeches resonated with the spirit of the day. The resounding success of the event left the audience spellbound, with parents showering messages of appreciation and praise, a testament to the dedication and excellence of our students, teachers, and staff.

Parents Training on 24th April, 2024

On Guest Lecture Empowers Parents to Engage Children in Summer Activities

Occupational therapist Saumil Asher and physiotherapist Priyanka Asher conducted a guest lecture for parents aimed at helping them understand how to engage their children in various summer activities tailored to their individual needs. The lecture emphasized the importance of inclusivity in social settings, providing parents with valuable insights and strategies to support their children effectively.

Psychologists Armin Shroff and Pradnya Apte present a module on Parenting skills called "Parent Power". Behind every confident young child stands a parent who believes the child, first.

Over 60 parents actively participated in this session focused on child psychology and positive parenting. The crux of this workshop emphasized the significant role parents play in the wellness of their children. Starting with the importance of strong parent-child bonding, the workshop highlighted the power of parental influence as role models. It offered coping strategies for emotional distress, active listening techniques, and effective communication activities to strengthen parent-child relationships. The speakers also highlighted the significance of parents' self-care and the transformative power of gratitude. The workshop was very well appreciated by our parents.

Grandparents Day

On 25th April, 2024, Grandparents Day Celebrated with Joy and Enthusiasm

A Heart-warming celebration of grandparents Day took place, honouring the invaluable role of grandparents in caring for and nurturing the children of our students at home. The event featured various games and activities, providing a platform for grandparents to share their experiences. With dancing, laughter, and shared stories, the day was filled with joy and positive feedback, reflecting the enthusiasm and overwhelming spirit of the attending grandparents.

Presentation By Speech Therapist

A presentation was given by Speech Therapist Ms. Mrugesha Sonawane in the afternoon session about "The Role of Parents in managing a child with Autism." Mrugesha's presentation offered attendees a comprehensive understanding of the role parents play in managing autistic children. By addressing key topics such as causes, therapy techniques, behavioural challenges, and the involvement of teachers, attendees gained valuable insights into supporting the holistic development of autistic children. The presentation emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach involving parents, therapists, and educators in ensuring the well-being and success of autistic children.

Teachers Training on 26th and 27th April

Effective communication skill workshop by Mrs. Anjali Marwah. Mrs. Anjali emphasized the crucial role of communication in daily life. She highlighted how effective communication enhances relationships and fosters understanding. She outlined practical strategies for communication effectiveness. These included active listening, empathy, nonverbal communication, and clarity in expression.

On Friday, April 26th, 2024, our teachers enjoyed a rejuvenating training session titled 'Everyday Stress Busters' with Psychologist Ms. Armin Shroff. The workshop empowered teachers to cultivate mindset shifts essential for effective stress management. Infused with humor, Ms. Shroff guided participants through a series of practical tools and techniques, including self-assessment of stress levels, physical stress-relief exercises, the 4As of stress management, and discussions on locus of control. The session concluded with teachers designing their personalized Stress-Busting First Aid toolkit, equipped with strategies to tackle everyday stressors.

On 27th April,2024, A presentation on "Epilepsy" by Mrs. Jayanthi Vishwanath. A comprehensive workshop on epilepsy delved into its types, symptoms, and effective care for individuals, especially children, during convulsions or seizures. Attendees learned how to recognize cues and symptoms in various individuals through informative presentations. The workshop aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to provide proper care, dos and don'ts and support for those living with epilepsy, emphasizing the importance of understanding and compassion in dealing with this condition.

Teachers Engage in Fun-filled Games for Mental Ability and Bonding.

On the last working day, teachers indulged in a series of games aimed at enhancing attention retention, memory, and alertness. Forming groups, they participated enthusiastically, fostering a lively atmosphere filled with laughter. The games not only provided entertainment but also strengthened bonds among the staff, promoting a sense of companionship and teamwork.

Summer Camp

We had a summer camp for our students from 1st April to 20th April. The following were the activities that we conducted:

• Outdoor games - Cricket, football, shuttle, musical chair

• Indoor games - Carrom, Ludo, Snake and ladder, UNO, traditional indoor games

Art and craft - making a pen stand, photo frame, book mark

All the rules of the games were discussed. The children were very enthusiastic and we could see in them lot of caring, sharing, accepting defeat,cheering for friends all through the whole month. They were very punctual for the classes bearing the heat. We also had our regular sessions of yoga.

Home program

Every year, we give Home Programs for our students to help parents to keep them engaged and also help them in not regressing from their current level. We keep changing the format to make it more interesting for them. This year also we spent a lot of time in preparing our Home Programs. Every parent was met and also guided about the activities. Some of the activities that we included this time are:

• Bio data reading and writing

• Outdoor games

• Indoor games

• ADL training

• Household activities

• Cooking without fire

• Listening to instrumental music

• Origami work

• Art and craft

For the Pre vocational children, some of the activities included are:

• Functional Academics

• Newspaper reading

• Non verbal students to get trained in writing their names and address

• Tuck Shop

We tried doing a tuck shop involving our children. We made groundnut chikkis and also lemon tea. Our students also painted diyas that were sold to parents. Next year, are planning for one or two products that we can proudly exhibit in the V-Excel stalls.

Autism Day Celebration on 2nd April-2024

World Autism Awareness Day, 2nd April, is an internationally recognized day, encouraging Member States of the United Nations taking measures to raise awareness about autistic individuals throughout the world. Provides a platform for communities worldwide to reflect on the diverse spectrum of neurodevelopmental differences within society.

At the V-Excel Centre, this day was celebrated with all students and teachers wearing sky blue colour clothes. Classrooms were decorated with balloons and quotes were written on autism. On this occasion colorful activities were conducted by teachers and students enjoyed them. Kids group photos were clicked and the celebrations recognized the importance of pride for autistic individuals and its role in bringing about positive changes in the broader society.

SAH-CHETANA on 7th April-2024

On the occasion of Autism awareness, we organised a function and named this "SAH-CHETANA" - (Sah - together, same Chetana - Consciousness, feeling).This function was conducted on 7th April . Here we had interviews and guidance of successful parents of autistic children and a convocation ceremony was held for successful students. We conducted the program to inspire parents to work more on their children.

Dr. Sapna Asava(Principal of Vivekananda School) , Dr. Ashis Bhutada(renowned Neuro Physician Doctor in Solapur) and Dr. Vikram Hirekerur(renowned pediatrician in Solapur) were the guests. They presented certificates and medals to our students. This was a proud moment for our center and parents.

We conducted interviews of three autistic children's parents ,who worked successfully on their children. Akshay's parents said Akshay has completed his graduation from IISER Pune and is now doing his internship in IIT Mumbai. Rudra is 13 years old and achieved many medals for swimming, sports and baking competitions. Navneet is a writer and his 4 books are published. One of these books he got a "Golden Book Award". The interview was followed by some questions and answers. Some difficulties were also discussed and how AAC devices(Augmentative and alternative communication) work for non-verbal children was shared by Navaneet's mother. So much knowledge and experience shared by parents, was helpful for other parents too.

Proponents of graduation ceremonies say, they bring schools and families together to build a community, support kids as they move into higher levels of academics and celebrate students' achievements. Following this, ice cream was disturbed to all with a vote of thanks.

Free Assessment and Counseling Camp on 13th April-2024

On 13th April free assessment and counseling camp was inaugurated by Ms. Janvi Makhija. Deep prajwalan was done by her.

This camp was kept open for public. Our center publicised this camp by putting banners in public places, on autorickshaws and other public places.

Many parents visited the center to understand about their children and shared symptoms of their kids. Our therapists, special educator explained and observed.

Parents counseling was done.

Summer Camp on 15th April-2024

Summer camp can be an excellent opportunity for children to develop important life skills, such as leadership, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. It can also provide a break from the daily routine of school and offer children a chance to explore new interests and hobbies. On 15th April, summer camp was inaugurated by Ms. Sunita Vaidya by planting trees with the children. Summer camp included planting trees, kitchen activity, art and craft activities, fun games, pretend play, story-telling with action. These activities were planned for early intervention students. Vocational students did activities where they played the role of bankers, doctor and nurse, chef, and waiter. These made them aware about the various places and the responsibility each person has.

Visit of SMT Rajeshwari, Narayan Reki on 18th April-2024

NRSP is founded by Smt. Rajeshwariji Modi, who is lovingly called 'Raj Didi'. She is a Reiki Grandmaster, Acupressure therapist and an excellent counsellor. NRSP is incessantly working to bring in Satyug, where people are positive in thoughts, words and deeds. NRSP believes that relations are the main force in managing, leading and living a successful life, which is full of good health, wealth, happiness, peace and prosperity. By means of various courses and talks the importance and benefits of being positive are revealed. On 18th NRSP founder SMT Rajeswari Didi visit our Centre. Ms. Sunita Vaidya, welcomed her with a bouquet, as a token of love and students welcomed by showering flowers on her. She visited all classes. She spoke about Reiki healing, how it works and how it is useful. Narayan Reiki works on relaxation and to reduce pain and tension throughout the body. It can also help reduce stress and anxiety, which can decrease pain perception as well.

Parents Meeting and Report submission Day on 19th April-2024

The day when exam results are released can be an emotional and stressful time for both parents and children. As a parent, it is important to support your child during this time, regardless of whether the results are good or bad. In this blog, we'll explore some ways in which you can support your child on result day. On the 19th April students report card was submitted by our Center. All class teacher discussed the improvement of the child, told od areas which required to be worked on. So many queries and questions asked by parents and they were happy with their child progress. A parent meeting was also conducted by Ms. Sunita Vaidya. Huge response received by parents attending the meeting. Parents were discussing their child's progress and gave suggestions to school. Ms. Sunita Vaidya suggested to them to do a course of autism to get knowledge and would be helpful for them to handle their child. The bond between teacher and student is more understanding than parents. It is full of trust as well as is lovable.

Vocational Activities

This month, Teachers and Therapist were busy with the Year End Report writing for our Vocational and Remedial Students. Teachers prepared a Home Plan for all the Trainees and Students. Due to extreme hot weather, only few students came to the center. All the staff together with the kitchen staff, cleaned, dried, measured, and roasted all the raw materials used for the Sambar Powder, Rasam Powder, and Health Mix Powder. Ground all the roasted raw materials in an outside flour mill. Then they made 1 kg, 250 gm, and 100 gm packets. Once closed the center for the trainees and the children, staff were engaged in the cleaning work for the coming Academic Year 2024-2025. Along with these activities, we distributed small prizes for the staff and trainees who actively participated in the academic and vocational activities and also to other trainees and students.

On the occasion of world health day Homeopathic Doctors club invited us to spread awareness of Autism and to give information about our centre. From Pandharpur center, Mrs Rashmi Diwan visited them and informed of how the center works for the Autism kids.

On the occasion of World Autism awareness month Pandharpur Inner wheel Club member, Mrs Nagina Bohari and other club members visited our centre and gifted a slide to our kids.

On the occasion of world Autism month Visionaries Group Pandharpur visited our centre and interacted with our kids. All the children had a great time and enjoyed singing and dancing with them. Mrs. Rashmi Diwan, from the center shared information about the V-Excel Educational learning center.

April was a busy month which began with World Autism Awareness Day but went on to be followed by activities with Grundfos, Tarang, Townhall and Unit Meeting.

Visit To Other NGOs' - Kanavu And Srishti Foundation On 5th April 2024

Charu visited two NGO's at Cuddalore and Vizhupuram along with ESVI Sarada Foundation Coordinators on 5th April 2024. Kanavu was a wonderful program where educational, and women empowerment was run by team of youngsters. Women were taught tailoring and making jute products and bags like us. Srishti Foundation was a residential facility for young adults with special needs especially with development delay from under privileged background. They train them inhouse on farming, culinary, baking, life skills, functional academics which are like us and sends for internships and mainstream jobs at Pondicherry. They also have a wonderful, sheltered workshop where residents make Lego handbags which are exported to European countries. It was wonderful to watch them do the assembly line and get a good salary out of the sale proceeds.

We visited various residential setups and other NGO's which helped us to learn the best practices and refer parents who enquire based on their needs.

• We had four interns of 2nd year Psychology students of MOP Vaishnav college who joined, and each one was assigned to work with trainees who need one on one support. They were able to adapt and started learning and teaching the trainees n tailoring, painting clay pots, masks, craft bead work and helped in editing IPP reports. They also had role play on first aid on safety measures in case of emergency for the family member. They were guided by our FA consultant.

Tarang At BVB On 10th April 2024

This month Tarang was shifted to Wednesday morning due to request from BVB and Mr. Saicharan, Super Singer rendered spectacular performance accompanying Bharath on keyboard and Sharath Damodaran on Percussion. It was more interactive and, he sang few songs on audience requests.

GRUNDFOS V-Excel World Autism Awarness Month Events

April 2nd, 15th and 25th

Grundfos had series of events for this month with our unit commemorating the World Autism month. The first one was Roundtable Discussion at Grundfos premises, 2nd visit VTU by their Global HR leaders center, 3rd was employee engagement event at the beach and Global Graduates' Volunteering Engagement program which was scheduled next month.

Event - 1

Roundtable Discussion On 2nd April 2024 At Grundfos

Charu and Gaythri were invited for the Roundtable Discussion on commemorating the World Autism Day by Grundfos on 2nd April. Charu was part of the parent's meet where the staff addressed the parents of trainees who have been placed and interning at Grundfos, where they explained the process and the activities about their wards. Parents were taken on a tour of the shop floor to see their wards at work in a corporate setup. It was overwhelming for the parents to see this, and they thanked Grundfos and V-Excel.

At the Roundtable Discussion, along with V-Excel Team, other NGO's representatives from Swabodhini, SNEH and Ability Foundation. Usha Subramaniyan, Apoorva, Krithika and Poovanan represented from the Grundfos side.

It was very interesting to know about each one's experiences from this and V-Excel shared its best practices.

Event - 2

Global HR Leaders Visit To VTU On 15th April 2024

On 15th April, we had 16 leaders from various nationalities along with Ms. Usha Subramanian, Country Head and Ms. Apoorva, Senor CSR Consultant. They were received by Trainee Sousan with roses, water by trainee Ashwin, and welcome address by Uma our Senior Consultant. Charu spoke about V-Excel and ESVI Sarada Foundation followed by Sushma, counsellor who spoke about Disability in Indian Context. They were grouped and taken on a tour to experience each vocational activity which they thoroughly enjoyed. They were impressed with our products and bought many items.

Event -3

Grundfos Employee Engagement Program For Autism Awareness Month On 25th April 2024 At Bessie Beach

The third event by Grundfos and V-Excel was the best and most memorable one for all. It was employee engagement program and creating awareness in the public place. From V-Excel 30 trainees from VTU and YES were taken to the beach along with 25 teachers and staff and from Grundfos we had 32 employees.

Charu had got the Chennai Police permission to conduct the event at the public space.

The agenda was to play games after splitting into three groups each with a combination of the trainees and employees. Each group were assigned to play cricket, throw ball and Frisbee. Despite the scorching heat at 4.00 pm, trainees were enthusiastic and started playing the games along with their new friends. Each one was running and catching, batting, throwing the ball and Frisbee game was most enjoyed game among the trainees. It was heartening to watch few trainees walking along with new friend and chatting and Grundfos employee interacting so well and could see the real inclusion at that event.

Delicious refreshment, Sundal prepared by trainees of YES and Panagam by VTU trainees and staff was served to all. Police department had assigned two constables exclusively for us as security.

Town Hall And Annual Unit Heads Meet On 22nd And 23rd April 2024

All teachers, staff and security attended the Town Hall meet held on 22nd April 2024. We experienced Spatial Dynamics movement conducted by Ms. Lakshmi Sudhakar, followed by presentation on Beyond Barriers by all the centres across India. From VTU our teacher Abee Wakaas, Uma and Charu presented about trainee Rithwik, Trainer Abirami on empowerment at the place of internship, how we could overcome their barriers. EI presentation was the best and humorous where each one enjoyed.

Charu attended the Unit Heads meeting on 23rd April at Sharada and Radhika's session on Transactional Analysis was extremely useful and holistic.

Vocational Activities/Functional Academics/Therapy/Counselling/Movement Dance Therapy

1. Vocational Activities

• Trainees were executing Jute and Gada block printing Tote bags for Sringeri by cutting the materials, block printing, pasting label, stacking, and packing. It was ready for delivery and one of the trainees was assigned to travel along with Admin team.

• Trainees then started working on our Solapur Trustee Mr. Dilip Kulkarni’s order of Jute thambulam bags 50 nos.

2. Functional Academics

• Uma had session orienting trainees on elections and voting rights.

• Interns from MOP Vaishnav college had role play on first aid and safety measures to be followed during any emergency which was guided by Uma.

3. Counselling/therapy/movement

• Counsellor had sessions with trainees, teachers, and parents

• Vasanth had therapy both individual and group.