Can Play be Therapeutic Wellbeing for of Children?

Making therapy less intimidating

- Albert Einsten

During my community service at a special education school, I witnessed special educators working with many children who face challenges in learning due to several reasons. Teachers felt they spent a lot more time with children doing basic everyday tasks such as making a child to hold a pencil, learning numbers and alphabets, helping them to eat their food independently etc.

This reflects a larger issue in India, where intellectual disabilities and conduct disorders often go untreated, escalating into severe challenges. According to the 76th round of the National Sample Survey, 0.93% of India's population has a disability, with intellectual disabilities being prominent among children. Given that 41% of India's population is under 18, nurturing mental and emotional well-being from an early age is crucial.

Ignoring behavioral difficulties not only affects individual growth but also impacts education, social integration, and future employability, making early intervention an urgent necessity.