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Description
Only 300 specialists are trained to work with children with autism in Romania. In Brașov County there are only 3 licensed associations that facilitate ABA therapies. Beyond the weak state support provided to families with children with special needs, the COVID-19 pandemic created an unprecedented isolation, with regression effects on children''s development. Thus it can be affirmed that young people and children with special needs are more vulnerable to COVID-19, and at the same time they are a vector of transmission given the poor understanding and integration of prevention measures. The biggest problem caused by the epidemic is the decrease in attendance of a form of therapy or not even visiting a psychotherapist. Number of therapy hours decreased in 2020 by 50%, amid social isolation and the contraction of the economy. The Dicta Association proposes to carry out activities of evaluation, specialized therapy, socialization and creation for children, as well as support for parents. The common goal is to improve the health and quality of life among children diagnosed with ASD in the County of Brașov, with an emphasis on those from families without financial means. The aim of the project is to increase the capacity of families with with members affected by autism spectrum disorders to overcome the effects of pandemic isolation through access to specialized diagnosis and therapy, necessary to increase the degree of inclusion in society.Through this project, 15 children will have a professional diagnosis, made by a team of a clinical psychologist and a psychiatrist, and interventions by a team of psychotherapists and psychoeducational. To potentiate the effects of therapy, parental counseling and training will be addressed. The project integrates a major component of communication with the general public and stakeholders, adding value to over 4% of the country''s population (parents of children with ASD), who will benefit from free online exercises with children.
Summary of project results
The project "After pandemics Interactive therapy for children with special needs" was dedicated to children with disorders – a group marginalized by society, which also suffered significantly due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The project''s activities responded in particular to the need of reducing the social alienation and increasing the chances of integration into society for the target group – children with special needs – for whom the social distancing caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has led to giving up or reducing therapy sessions.
The activities were carried out by a psychologist and a specialist in psychopedagogy, and the initial evaluations were carried out by a psychiatrist and a clinical psychologist. 30 children on the autistic spectrum were clinically evaluated and then introduced to therapy, socialization and creativity activities. The project also aimed at expanding education in the family environment, by consulting, counselling and guiding 21 parents. The communication activities aimed at increasing the awareness of the general public regarding the interaction with children with autism: 5 short films representing exercises intended for children with special needs were posted on the organization''s YouTube account. There were other 24 posts were made on Facebook, which attracted over 20,000 views and interactions.
The success of the project was evaluated through the final evaluation tools that showed significant improvements in the behaviours of the 30 children on the autistic spectrum and their parents. The continuation of long-term activities through other projects will ensure the maintenance and growth of desirable skills and behaviours among children with special needs.