Autism – Partnering Parents in their Journey
by Rajendran K.S. | Grant Amount Awarded: $9,000
For many lower-income Indian families, navigating an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis presents significant challenges. High costs of private therapy, long waiting periods between public healthcare appointments, and cultural misconceptions surrounding autism often leave parents without guidance during critical developmental stages of their child’s life.
Autism – Partnering Parents in their Journey was initiated to address these gaps by empowering parents with knowledge, confidence, and practical strategies. Supported by a $9,000 grant from the SINDA Community Impact Fund, the project focused on helping parents better understand how autistic children perceive the world, the reasons behind their communication and learning challenges, and the approaches that can be applied in everyday interactions.
The project prioritised face-to-face workshops and home visits to provide personalised, culturally sensitive support and to debunk common myths surrounding autism. Despite pandemic-related constraints, one workshop was successfully conducted before in-person gatherings were halted. The session created a safe space for parents to share experiences, gain clarity on their children’s needs, and learn practical strategies to support learning and communication. Feedback indicated that parents found the session highly beneficial, with some expressing interest in contributing to future workshops.
Looking ahead, the project seeks to build a sustainable, community-led support network for families with autistic children. Plans are being explored to deliver content through online platforms, allowing for wider reach while maintaining the empathetic and relational approach that underpinned the project’s initial success. Support from the SINDA Community Impact Fund has played a vital role in equipping families with knowledge, reassurance, and a stronger sense of community as they support their children’s development.