Learning To Teach Special Children

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: Shiva, aged eight, is a child with attention deficit hyperactive disorders. He generally exhibits problem behaviours like, getting away from his seat, having no eye-contact, wandering around the school, not obeying the commands, and unable to sit at one place for the required time. Shiva has some positive attributes as well. He recognises the concerned people, is sensitive and emotional, and loves animals.

On coming to Four Steps, he underwent various programmes, which changed him quite a lot. He was introduced to sports activities. Objects were kept away from him, at a distance of at least 50 mt, so that he would run to get them. He was taught 50/100 mt races. On getting tired, he would sit in his place for the required time.

Then Shiva was taught activities like threading beads that required time. He was also made to join in group activities like music and dance. Now he sits at one place and carries out the work for the required period.

Four Steps is a rehabilitation, research and training centre for children with special needs. The Delhi-based centre functions under the aegis of Dalmia Seva Trust. Promoted by the Dalmia group, which has a turnover of Rs 1,200 crore, the centre is run by Jayanti Dalmia (trustee) and Sangeeta Khandelwal (coordinator), who themselves are parents of special children. Ms Dalmia is the wife of Anurag Dalmia, who is the vice-president of the Dalmia group.

They set out with the intention to tap the unexplored potential of these kids who are enormously talented and skilled but just need the right guidance. “Special children if guided at young age can learn much faster, and behave almost like normal children,” says Ms Dalmia. “They, in fact, respond with much better affection and respect than normal children towards their teachers,” adds Ms Khandelwal.

Four Steps was set up in April 2002 with a capital of Rs 10 lakh. It aims to make these children self-reliant who are otherwise disregarded.

The teaching is done in four steps. Early Intervention Centre caters to children with special needs up to the age of 3, and provides guidance to their parents as well by therapists, specialists and special educators for their overall development.