• “For every child, initially we do a comprehensive physical assessment and evaluation of function to determine a possible diagnosis and prognosis. We use the International Classification of Function, Disability, and Health (ICF) as a framework for understanding each child’s unique experiences in their family and community.
• We have a dedicated Early Intervention (EI) service for babies and young infants. We have staff with Advanced Prechtl General Movements Assessment (GMA) certification who can identify atypical neurological development in a baby by three months of age. This directs them to our essential EI services much earlier than traditionally possible.
• We develop individualized treatment plans for children with neurodevelopmental disorders. The plans are designed in discussion with the child and the family. Any intervention is in accordance with recognized international best practices.
• We provide free provision of aids such as customized postural appliances, e.g., standing frames, a variety of special seating, mobility aids, and wheelchairs that are modified to support children in functional activities. We have a workshop and experienced technical staff working alongside our clinical staff to manage this service.
• We have an orthotic workshop manufacturing orthosis and splinting on-site. Our orthotics are also provided free of charge. This department has been equipped and the materials required are funded by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
• We encourage caregivers to see their child’s abilities and potential; we coach them to support their child’s development at home. Helping caregivers build resilience and have the ability to recognize their own strengths is very important. The caregivers are the primary influence in achieving the change in their children for improving their quality of life. Our role is to give guidance, inform and coach caregivers in activities they can promote at home and, when necessary, provide the specific interventions the child needs, like orthotics or postural appliances. Every session is a joint activity between the child, caregiver, and therapists.
• We continue coaching caregivers as the child grows and develops, enabling them to best help their child achieve their potential at every stage of their childhood.
• We keep computerized record-keeping of data, history, and tracking of progress for each child. This helps us to track a child’s progress and review past experiences over the years.
• We advocate for families and children to access other services, e.g., for the mother, antenatal care for subsequent pregnancies; for the child, access to an educational placement, or referral to a specialist for epilepsy management. For some childhood disabilities, there are recognized hereditary conditions. In these circumstances, we help the families understand the implications for future offspring so that they can make their own informed decisions for the growth of their family.
• We have a qualified teacher providing specialist teaching. The aim is to prepare for an eventual educational placement for the child in a government or private establishment. This service gives a unique opportunity for a caregiver to see how their child will benefit from education, no matter the degree of disability. Our policy of accepting any child who comes to AKi and our very high daily attendances means we cannot, unfortunately, offer this service as a regular school.”