The following Pause for Parenting programme looks the residential  centre for special needs children operated by the Child Care Board, the Violet Gittens Centre.  My guests Paula Drakes  and Eulene  Leacock House mother and attendant share what it’s like working with special needs children and what they would like to see happen to help these children.

Parents of children with disabilities face numerous challenges that can be overwhelming and isolating. These challenges can vary greatly depending on the nature and severity of the disability, as well as the availability of resources in their community.

It's important to recognize that parents of children with disabilities require support that goes beyond medical treatment. They often face financial strain, social exclusion, and lack of access to resources and services, which can have a profound impact on their well-being.

To address these issues, it's essential to increase public awareness of disability issues and promote inclusive policies and programs that support individuals with disabilities and their families. This can include providing accessible and affordable healthcare services, education, and social support programs that cater to their unique needs.

It's equally important to involve parents of children with disabilities in policy and program development to ensure that their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed. This can help build a more inclusive and supportive society that recognizes and values the contributions of individuals with disabilities and their families.

In conclusion, supporting parents of children with disabilities requires a holistic approach that goes beyond medical treatment. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society that recognizes the needs and rights of individuals with disabilities and their families.

The subject for  discussion is the need for Self Reflection and how it relates to Emotional Intelligence and parenting. My guest is Melena Simmons and she explains the importance of using the tools of emotional intelligence to raise their children. She also looks at the importance of Emotional Intelligence and it’s usefulness in dealing with a lot of the negative behavior in society.

The Pause for Parenting programme aims to prevent violence among young people by identifying risk factors, understanding different types of violence and addressing adverse childhood experiences. Occupational therapist Lorin Brathwaite, who specializes in mental health, provides valuable insights to promote positive coping strategies and advocate for policies and programs to support the well-being of young people and their families. The programme addresses risk factors such as exposure to violence, poverty, substance abuse, mental health problems, social isolation, lack of parental involvement, and poor academic performance. Different types of violence that young people may engage in or be exposed to include physical, sexual, emotional or psychological abuse, and bullying. The programme takes a comprehensive approach to create a safer and healthier environment for all.

Virtual Officer can find great success, the skills need to succed are offer in a earn as you learn training opportunity.