As DIFFERENTIAL NEEDS are hidden disabilities, children with these issues are branded as being “dull”, “lazy”, “disobedient”, “obstinate”. This is because parents as well as teachers are not aware of the condition and this child looks like any other. Bringing about awareness has been a major part of the work at Vatsalya Legacy and one of its main objectives.

Like any other condition “early identification and help” are crucial here too. This would be possible only if parents and teachers are aware of how it manifests and understand why it is important to address the issues.

It is important that :

• The general public as well as educationists understand the enormity of the problem: the incidence, (according to world statistics), its symptoms and the importance of providing help.
• School management help in accommodating such children in their schools.
• The awareness needs also to be done at the vernacular level so that it reaches everyone.

What can awareness do?

• Help in early identification of the child can prevent the children “at risk” from having a full-blown disability later.
• Can help in understanding and supporting the children having a difficulty both at home and school and understand the child holistically.
• The child would in turn be reassured and self -confident that he can perform when he is given help rather than think he is stupid.

What can lack of awareness do?

• Their self-esteem can be brought down by parents and educator who don’t understand them.
• The potential of these children could go untapped and they could be sidelined in schools and may ultimately lose interest in studies and may even become school dropouts.

What does Vatsalya Legacy do for awareness?

• Awareness talks in public platforms like social clubs, corporate gatherings and school gatherings for parents and teachers.
• Awareness workshops for a longer duration 2-3 hours, covering the various aspects of identification.
• Programmes on radio and television about this condition.
• Write-ups in English and Hindi dailies as well as English and Hindi magazines about Dyslexia.
• Publications and also disseminate information through the Newsletter and Website.