Joy, Healing, Inclusion as Zaria Hosted Special Children’s Play Therapy Event
Special Report
Joy, Healing, Inclusion as Zaria Hosted Special Children’s Play Therapy Event
It was a moving scene of joy, laughter, and emotional healing as the Nurture Special Education Needs Foundation (NSENF) hosted a remarkable Children’s Day Play Therapy Event at JPEC Chimel Academy in Zaria on Saturday, May 31, 2025. The event, dedicated to children with neurological and psychosocial disabilities alongside their peers, turned into a colourful celebration of inclusion, empathy, and community resilience.
Designed to create a safe and expressive space for children with special needs, the event featured a range of play therapy activities that captivated both participants and observers. From the Sensory Play Corner to the Creative Arts Zone, Music & Movement sessions, and puppet-led storytelling, the programme was both therapeutic and uplifting.
The “I Am a Star” recognition ceremony drew cheers as every participating child was celebrated for their uniqueness and courage. A special highlight was the expert-led dialogue with parents and caregivers on managing children with developmental challenges—a moment that many described as deeply affirming.
Despite facing challenges such as limited funding, overstimulation among children, and a last-minute change of venue, the event recorded strong attendance: 17 children with special needs, 5 neurotypical children, 13 parents and caregivers, and several professionals from the media, education, and humanitarian sectors.
The event was powered by an impressive team of volunteers, with support from key partners including the Centre for Girls Education (CGE), FAM Initiative, and Quatech Photography, among others. Special recognition was given to Hajiya Habiba Mohammed of CGE and Jecinta Egbim of FAM Initiative for their donations and tireless coordination efforts.
Speaking at the close of the event, NSENF Executive Director Aisha Ibrahim Ahmad reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to championing inclusive development. “This is more than a celebration; it is a movement for empathy, awareness, and sustained support for our children,” she said.
The Children’s Day Play Therapy Event, though modest in scale, left an indelible impact on participants and further underscored the power of inclusive play in fostering healing and community connection.
Comments
Post a Comment