Oman launches programme to support for children with autism
An official from the ministry told Muscat Daily that the programme is designed to enhance behavioural, social, academic and functional skills through practical experiences tailored to each child's individual needs.
'It ensures each child receives the maximum benefit based on their unique potential,' the official said. The programme supplements ongoing rehabilitation services provided throughout the year and places a strong emphasis on communication and language development.
Individual and group sessions incorporate alternative communication methods and assistive technologies to help children express themselves more effectively.
Improving social interaction is a key focus, with group activities encouraging cooperation and peer engagement. Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) strategies are employed to reinforce positive behaviour, while academic support is offered through reading, writing and arithmetic sessions. Sports and art activities are also included to aid the development of motor skills.
The programme is being held in two phases at the National Autism Centre: The first from June 3 to 19, and the second from June 22 to July 3. Each day is divided into two sessions – 8:30am to 10:30am and 11:00am to 1:00pm – aligned with the children's energy levels and abilities.
'Through this programme, we aim to offer an integrated setting that supports children with autism during the summer. It thoughtfully blends rehabilitation, education and fun, boosting their self-confidence and enhancing core skills,' the official added.
The sessions are supervised by a multidisciplinary team comprising behavioural therapists, speech and language specialists, and occupational therapists, ensuring a comprehensive approach that encourages active participation and sustained motivation.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Muscat Daily
21 hours ago
- Muscat Daily
‘Our Safe Home' promotes family stability, security in Oman
Muscat – Through its Directorate General in Dakhliyah, Ministry of Social Development (MoSD) launched an initiative called 'Our Safe Home' on Monday aimed at reinforcing family security and fostering a society based on mutual respect, understanding and compassion. The initiative seeks to strengthen family cohesion, encourage open dialogue among household members, and promote shared values that support psychological and social development. Authorities view these as critical to maintaining stability in households and the wider community. As part of the initiative, three specialised workshops were organised focusing on mental health, family relationships and parenting in the digital age. Dr Hilal bin Salem al Abri, a guidance and counselling specialist at Sultan Qaboos University, led the first session titled 'How to be Successful Amidst the Crowds and Comparisons'. Aimed at youth aged 13 to 28, the workshop addressed the psychological effects of social comparisons and offered tools to enhance self-awareness and mental well-being. The second workshop – Red Light – was conducted by Dr Kafala bint Hamoud al Omairi, Head of Marriage Counselling Team in Dakhliyah. It focused on recognising early warning signs in relationships, particularly during engagement and the initial phase of marriage. Participants were introduced to techniques for emotional regulation and community-based support strategies. In the final session – Digital Upbringing in a Fast-Paced World – Dr Nahla bint Rashid al Shabibiyah of Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs highlighted the challenges of raising children in the digital era. The session outlined differences between traditional and digital parenting and provided strategies for maintaining a healthy balance between online and offline life. The 'Our Safe Home' initiative was part of Ministry of Social Development's broader efforts to promote social resilience and enhance family communication, contributing to the development of a more cohesive and supportive society.
Observer
2 days ago
- Observer
'Our Safe Home' initiative to promote cohesive society, family stability
Suhar: The General Directorate of Social Development in Al Batinah North Governorate has officially launched the 'Our Safe Home' initiative, aiming to strengthen family bonds and promote societal stability. The event, hosted at Al Khaleej Hall in the Wilayat of Saham, was held under the auspices of Dr Khalid bin Ali al Alawi, General-Director of Consumer Protection in the governorate, and was attended by community leaders, social specialists and local families. This initiative reflects the Ministry of Social Development's broader commitment to fostering a cohesive, resilient society, which is one of the key pillars of Oman Vision 2040. By supporting family well-being and raising awareness of evolving social dynamics, the programme contributes directly to the Vision's priority of empowering human capital and safeguarding the identity and unity of Omani society. Three impactful presentations were featured at the launch. The first, "Red Flags," delivered by Mohannad al Jahwari, focused on early indicators of family distress and the importance of early intervention. The second, "Generation Z in a World of Comparisons," presented by Thuraya al Qartoobi, tackled the pressures faced by young people, especially those stemming from social media, peer comparison, and identity development. The final presentation, "Digital Upbringing in a Rapid World," by Laila al Mazrouei, discussed how digital life is reshaping parenting methods and communication within families. A closing panel discussion moderated by psychologist Ali al Zadjali offered further reflection on how Omani families can adapt to rapid societal and technological changes. The event witnessed a wide range of attendees, proving the popularity of the concepts discussed. Alia al Balushi, a mother from Saham, said, "It gave me real insight into the digital world my children are growing up in." Salim al Hosni, a university student, added, "Hearing professionals talk about our generation's struggles made me feel supported and understood." By launching such initiatives, the ministry contributes meaningfully to the goals of Oman Vision 2040, building a socially secure, mentally resilient, and future-ready nation.
Muscat Daily
2 days ago
- Muscat Daily
Volunteers welcome launch of ‘Ayadi' platform
Muscat – Volunteers across Oman have welcomed the launch of 'Ayadi', a new digital platform developed by Ministry of Social Development (MoSD) to organise voluntary work and encourage civic participation. The platform is designed to unify national volunteer activities under one system, enabling individuals, teams and institutions to coordinate initiatives across sectors such as health, education, environment and emergency response. Hamoud bin Murdad al Shabibi, Advisor for Planning to Minister of Social Development, said the platform will help manage volunteer hours, monitor team activities and reduce duplication, particularly during emergencies. 'It will allow better coordination and lower operational costs while attracting specialised competencies,' he said. As the first platform of its kind in the sultanate, Ayadi will offer a centralised database of volunteers and organisations. Institutions can submit initiatives, track contributions, and generate reports to ensure transparency and improve performance oversight. MoSD also plans to support volunteer teams through training programmes aimed at building capacity and reinforcing the role of community partnerships in national development goals. Abdullah bin Khalfan al Abri, a member of Ibri Charity Volunteer Team, said Ayadi will enhance coordination between volunteers and institutions. 'It will help us implement targeted initiatives more efficiently,' he said. His team is currently running the Sawaed al Khair initiative, which provides roadside assistance and rest areas for pilgrims passing through the wilayat. Ahmed bin Saif al Rashidi, Head of Barka Charity Team, said the platform resolves several challenges, including tracking volunteers and linking individuals with relevant opportunities. 'It enhances transparency and helps document our efforts,' he said. His team has completed several projects, such as construction of houses for the needy and launch of digital donation tools, including a WhatsApp-based charity channel and the 'Ataa Barka' application. Volunteers said the structured framework provided by Ayadi will support professional civic work and help instil values of social responsibility, especially among young people. MoSD stated that it hopes Ayadi will position the volunteer sector as a strategic contributor to Oman Vision 2040 objectives and sustainable community development.
