March 2022 27 www.bahrainthismonth.com interview integration,” he says, adding that society’s understanding and acceptance of people with Down Syndrome has grown too. The society has several foresighted programmes that they wish to implement in the near future. “Whenever we receive funds, we implement programmes that we’ve had in the pipeline to further help the children and young adults,” he says. Highlighting the society’s services through media coverage and other means has allowed them to reach out to more children over time. “Educating the parents regarding their special needs at the time that we started was much harder. Now, we find that they are more involved… to the extent of making suggestions for programmes too. Previously there was sense of ignorance; the parents would in fact ignore their children, but now we see them paying attention to their needs, educating them and being more proactive. There is definitely a change in mindset,” he elaborates. The society aims to implement a series of programmes including a highly comprehensive curriculum for people with Down Syndrome. “It is the funding we receive that has enabled us to run the society smoothly since its establishment. We have great plans in the future and we need continued financial support to keep growing our range of programmes and further empower the children. So, that’s the next step,” he concludes. To reach out to the Bahrain Down Syndrome Society, follow @bahrain.dss on Instagram or call 17 825-300.
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