Daveyton play group owner raises awareness on autism

The month of April marks National Autism Month.

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that manifests itself during the first three years of life. This results from a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain.

In observing the month, Zodwa Mthembu of Etwatwa has emphasised the importance of early diagnosis and early intervention of autism.

Mthembu, who runs a playgroup called Kutullo Stimulation and Day Care Centre, creates awareness and advocates acceptance to parents whose children are suffering from the disorder.

Mthembu, who has an NPO certificate and a certificate in inclusive education, looks after physical and mental disabled children who are suffering from autism, Down Syndrome, and cerebral palsy.

According to Mthembu, through her experience of working with disabled people, she has found that some parents don’t necessarily neglect their children, however, due to lack of information after diagnosis of the disorder, parents tend to feel overwhelmed.

They have this unimaginable burden of caring for a child living with a disability.

“I have heard cases where parents have locked their children indoors while some become resistant and in denial to a point of thinking that their children are somehow bewitched. I think this all boils down to the lack of support and education.”

Mthembu added that in a quest to educate people about the various types of disabilities, she has gone to clinics to inform parents about the various disabilities and how they can care for their children at home when they are back from school.

“While growing up, I had a passion for disabled people. After matric, I decided to volunteer at an organisation in Crystal Park where I learnt more about disability. I remember my first training was on autism,” said Mthembu.

The 38-year-old, who has a background in psychology, said after acquiring skills at that organisation she decided to open her own playgroup.

“Some of the children that I look after have drastically improved. Some of them didn’t know how to sit but they now know how to. Their level of learning is different, hence we try to teach them social behavioural learning so that they can be independent and be functional,” she said.

She encourages parents of disabled children to refrain from locking their children indoors but to take them to centres where their quality of life can improve.
Her dream is to have a fully fleshed functional stimulation centre in Daveyton.

The director of the Greater Benoni Child Welfare Vanessa Carelse appeals to the public to report cases of negligence so that they can investigate and potentially empower parents of disabled people.

For more information on how to get assistance phone 011 849 5241.

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Also Read: Daveyton school celebrates Autism Awareness Day