We all know that a lack of information creates fears and prejudices. In this regard, Einstein said that it’s easier to disintegrate an atom than a prejudice. Limited access to information about disabilities and recent global advances in mitigating their negative effects is a common situation in the Republic of Moldova. This is particularly acute in the case of children with special needs, especially concerning the respect for their rights.
The environment in which a child grows significantly contributes to the development of their skills. Therefore, an environment that stimulates the development of children with disabilities should provide access to materials tailored to each child’s developmental characteristics.
The project “ACCURATE INFORMATION AND SUSTAINABLE KNOWLEDGE FOR BETTER INTEGRATION OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS” aimed to create a library at the Tony Hawks Center. It was established with the financial support provided by the Government of the United States of America through the FAA, as well as the assistance from international specialists in the field of pediatric rehabilitation who visited the TH Center and offered recommendations to both professionals and parents.
During the project implementation (September 2019 – January 2020), its main objective was achieved: the creation of a printed and electronic library containing the most relevant information in the field of pediatric rehabilitation, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, sensory integration, art and music therapy, speech therapy, psychology, and social assistance. It is worth noting that the stored information had been published no later than the last 10 years and represents the views of the world’s most renowned experts in the field of pediatric rehabilitation.
This significant collection of books and prestigious journals filled an existing gap in useful informational support for professionals serving nearly 600 children with special needs annually.
The second objective of this project was to upgrade the information technology infrastructure of the Tony Hawks Center, including electronic information access. In this regard, computers, laptops, tablets, and e-readers were purchased.
The use of assistive technology for children with special needs in the Republic of Moldova is currently limited. Therefore, it was decided to provide informational support to adolescents and young people with special needs through modern equipment that can be used at the center.
Thanks to this grant, for the first time, the computers at the center, designated for children, were equipped with modern assistive technologies, which will facilitate their use by adolescents with upper limb motor difficulties. Tablets equipped with games selected by the center’s specialists aim to guide and assist parents in choosing games that contribute to the children’s development in line with their age and abilities.
Through the sustainability of this project, the goal is to continue raising awareness in the field of disability in children and adolescents. It is hoped that both parents, adolescents, and other family members will show interest in up-to-date information.
Sincere thanks are extended to the U.S. Embassy in Chisinau for providing this wonderful opportunity.