Latest news with #KhalidAlAwadhi
Gulf Weekly
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Gulf Weekly
Woolly warmth
melissa@ A crocheted wollyback, reminiscent of the popular labubu toy, is winning the hearts of people in Bahrain as it aims to raise awareness about autism and support individuals on the spectrum. Arroy the Lamb, dubbed as the 'Bahraini Labubu', is a fun twist on the viral international trend, and is the initiative of Alia Early Intervention and Rehabilitation Centre, which has designed it as an extension of a story series to help young minds navigate difficult situations. The toy was brought alive through a collaboration with Bahraini women specialising in local handmade products, and continues to be handcrafted by bright young individuals at the Alia centre. It is based on Arroy, a lovable character steeped in Bahraini culture and widely featured in children's stories. 'Grandparents tell these tales when children in the family do not listen,' the centre's public relations head Khalid Al Awadhi explained, adding that their new story, entitled Arroy the Lamb, hopes to help children, including young adults at the centre, with the anxiety associated with hospital visits. 'It is a story for all kids and the first in a planned series of social stories designed to help children understand everyday situations in a calm, reassuring way,' Khalid added. 'It was developed through collaboration between our students, teachers and therapists, so it really reflects what our children need to see and hear. The aim is to build confidence, reduce anxiety, and make these experiences feel familiar and safe.' Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental condition marked by disruptions in brain signalling that cause people to behave, communicate, interact and learn in atypical ways. Currently, Alia centre works with 160 individuals on the spectrum, aged from six to 45 years. The toy, Arroy the Lamb, and the story book are available at Halla by Alia café in A'ali, the kingdom's first café run by young adults with autism. Proceeds from the sales of the toy will be used towards the centre and for the individuals it works with. 'Arroy is more than a handmade toy; it's a symbol of connection,' the centre's director Dr Shaikha Rania Al Khalifa told GulfWeekly. 'Watching our students and team bring Arroy to life reminds me daily that small things, made with care, can make a big difference,' she added. Each Arroy is handmade by the centre's boys and girls, giving it a one-of-a-kind charm. 'Every purchase helps students develop creative and work skills while raising public awareness about autism. It's a small symbol of Bahraini creativity, inclusion, and community spirit,' said an employee at the centre, who works directly with the young adults. 'Crocheting Arroy with the children has been such a grounding experience. You see them relax, follow patterns, and express themselves. It helps them handle big feelings in a gentle, tangible way,' the employee added. While there are no treatments or cures for autism, intervention with supportive measures, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, social skills training, sensory integration therapy, visual aids, structured routines, individualised education plans, family therapy and providing a calm and predictable environment, remains critical for improving cognitive, social and communication skills in children with ASD. The Arroy toy is priced at BD16.
Gulf Weekly
03-04-2025
- General
- Gulf Weekly
The art of caring
Several initiatives are being staged across Bahrain to raise awareness about autism and celebrate the abilities and achievements of individuals on the spectrum, coinciding with World Autism Awareness month in April. Special Families Support (SFS) Bahrain group has made a striking collage of handprints, showcasing their commitment to the cause. The artistic initiative is part of their special campaign entitled 'Growing together in autism acceptance'. SFS families and friends were invited to share handprints of any colour with their name on it and the submissions were compiled to produce two collages. 'This month, we celebrate our neuro-diverse children and the SFS family,' a representative of the support group told GulfWeekly. 'While spreading awareness is important, our campaign stresses on acceptance and advocacy, post awareness, as both of these are equally needed. 'Those who shared the handprints took an oath pledging their support to the cause,' she added. SFS has creatively defined 'AUTISM' by giving a new meaning to each letter, with 'a' standing for advocate acceptance, 's' for support independence and so on. Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. The United Nations designated April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day, however, supporters of the cause worldwide focus on activities and campaigns throughout April. This year's theme is 'Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)', highlighting the intersection between neurodiversity and global sustainability. It aims to showcase how inclusive policies and practices can drive positive change for autistic individuals worldwide and contribute to the achievement of SDGs. The Bahrain Society for Children with Behavioural and Communication Difficulties, in partnership with the Interior Ministry and Exhibition World Bahrain, will stage the annual Run for Autism on April 19, from 8am until noon, at Exhibition World Bahrain in Sakhir. 'This year's Run for Autism is made even more meaningful through the generous support of our partners. Together, we are sending a strong message of unity, inclusion and compassion,' Alia for Early Intervention and Alia Rehabilitation Centre director Dr Shaikha Rania Al Khalifa said. Both Alia for Early Intervention and Alia Rehabilitation Centre operate under the Bahrain Society for Children with Behavioural and Communication Difficulties. 'This important community initiative aims to raise public awareness, foster inclusion, and celebrate the abilities of individuals on the autism spectrum. We invite people of all ages and abilities to participate – whether by running, walking or joining the festivities in support,' society public relations head Khalid Al Awadhi said. In addition to the three- and five-kilometre runs, the event will also feature entertainment activities for families and children, awareness booths and support resources, giveaways, refreshments and more. Individuals with autism will receive special recognition as well. 'We are planning to stage a motorcycle ride for the cause on April 25,' Shahzaib's Club House founder and director Amena Shahrukh said, adding that more details will be announced soon. Shahzaib's Club House is a local community of differently abled people. It was founded by Amena three years ago, as an extension of her personal journey with her late son, Mohammed Shahzaib Lali, who was differently abled, and died of pneumonia at the age of 21. For more details, follow @ @aliaautismcenters and @shahzaibsclubhouse. SFS' campaign A: Advocate acceptance U: Understand neurodiversity T: Tolerate sensory stimming I: Integrate and educate S: Support independence M: Mandate equality
