JHB junior council members trained on Autism
The Key School of Children with Autism, prepares to lead the autism awareness month walk.
To celebrate Autism Awareness Day on April 26, the Key School for Children with Autism hosted a training session for the Johannesburg Junior Council members.
The meeting aimed to provide council members with attendance training and insights into the challenges faced by individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
The training session was led by Michelle Pellaton the principal of the school – the training covered topics such as communication strategy, behaviour management techniques, Makaton sign language, Picture Exchange Communication Systems, and Augmentative and Alternative Communication.
Pellaton also explained the purpose of the training, “I invited the Johannesburg junior council here to show them the challenges our children face and bring a better understanding of what Autism is, as well as expand the love for our growing little village”.
Through hands-on activities and role-playing scenarios from children and the teachers, the council members developed practical skills for supporting individuals with Autism in various social and educational settings. James Drumgoole the Autistic taekwondo instructor, took over the meeting to educate the council members on coping mechanisms.
Council members were also introduced the the school’s environment, where they had an opportunity to interact with students and teachers. Through guided tours and interactive sessions, they gained a deeper understanding of the specialised support systems and educational approaches to the needs of children with Autism.
Zandile Chabane, chairperson of the JHB junior council said, “I enjoyed interacting with staff members in the setting with the children, interacting with them was different I got to experience life from a different point of view”.
As the training concluded, council members expressed their gratitude for the eye-opening experience and the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals with Autism. Armed with newfound knowledge and empathy, they pledged to champion inclusivity and advocate for the rights and needs of individuals with Autism in their roles as young leaders.
Mulalo Silima, co-mayor of the JHB junior council said, ” This session was very insightful and it expanded my mind on different perspectives of autism.”
On April 26, The Key School walked around Parktown with the children, JHB junior council members, family members, and neighbours to bring more awareness on Autism and celebrate April Autism Awareness Month.
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