Equipping catechists to support learners with special needs

Mar 31, 2023

By Angelica Bateman
The Archdiocesan Catechetical Centre organised a workshop recently aimed at creating awareness among catechists about special educational needs and strategies for supporting learners with special needs.

The Reach Out! workshop was conducted by three catechists from the Church of the Holy Family, Kajang: Constance Yuen, Tiffany Kannapathy and Peggy Sim, who have been supporting learners with special needs in their parish since 2016.

The workshop covered three key topics focusing on neurodiversity, an introduction to special educational needs, and strategies for supporting learners with special needs.

The full-day workshop, held at the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on March 18, had a positive impact on the participants who came from various parishes across the diocese. The participants consisted of catechists, parents, guardians or family members of children with special needs. Most expressed their appreciation for how the workshop changed their perspective on learners with special needs.

It was an insightful workshop for Jennifer Deravasoo from the Chapel of Christ the King. “The session has taught me to celebrate these children’s strengths so that they can shine. Every child is unique and special and it is our job to provide an environment that is fit for these children”.

“The workshop was great and informative; I did not expect to learn so much but I gained a lot,” said Christine from the Church of the Good Shepherd, Setapak. “The term ‘neurodiversity’ is an eye-opener for me. Awareness to society, especially parents, is important. Children deserve a free environment, regardless of whether they are normal children or children with special needs,” she added.

Ilein Roberts shared similar sentiments. “I found the session very interesting and engaging. It was an eye-opener for some of us on matters we had not understood before about special learners. We have at least a basic understanding now that will enrich our time with special learners. I found the strategies to be used in class particularly useful,” said the parishioner of the Church of Jesus Caritas, Kepong

Kudos to the speakers and the Archdiocesan Catechetical Ministry for this wonderful effort. The aim of the Reach Out! workshop is to reach as many as possible and create awareness on the topic has been met.

Though this may be the first workshop, it’s a huge step for our community, with the increasing number of individuals with special educational needs. We hope through programmes and workshops like these, we will be able to extend our love and support to parents, caregivers, and educators who have dedicated their time and efforts towards the future of learners with special needs.