Author Ramya
I am named Ramya, would love to be called mom from my 13 year old son. Certified in various streams and last year remedial too.
@simplyathome YouTube channel was created to have my sanity and to support other caregivers of kids in spectrum who are aware of what needs to be done, but stagnant like I have been on the “how to’s” break down the process.
This is my small way to give back to community by sharing all that I attempt at home. Home is where values embed and home is the first school for each of us.
Day: September 12, 2023
Social media platforms can provide valuable avenues for people with disabilities to connect, share experiences, and engage with communities that understand their challenges. These platforms offer a way to communicate, access information, and even advocate for their needs and rights. Many people say that social media is not a safe platform to interact with others. But people with special needs cannot have any problems to remain in touch with their familiar friends, family members and relatives with whom they cannot meet always physically.
However, it is important to consider accessibility issues and potential drawbacks as well, and work towards creating an inclusive online environment for everyone.
Social media can be a valuable tool for people with special needs in several ways:
1. Community and Support: Social media platforms allow individuals with special needs to to connect, share experiences, and offer emotional support with those who are also facing from similar challenges like them.
2. Education and Awareness: It is a platform that can help to raise awareness about various special needs and conditions which can further help to reduce stigma and promoting understanding. It can be a powerful tool for raising awareness about special needs by providing a platform to share personal stories, experiences, and insights. It allows individuals with special needs and their families to connect, share resources, and educate the public. Creating dedicated pages, using relevant hashtags, and sharing informative content can help reach a wider audience and promote understanding and inclusion. It is important to ensure that the content is respectful, accurate, and empathetic to effectively raise awareness and advocate for positive change.
3. Communication: For those people who have communication difficulties, social media can provide alternative means of expressing thoughts, ideas, and emotions. Many social media platforms offer text-based communication, which can be useful for individuals who can type or use assistive technology to write. Collaborative features like group chats and online communities, which can help people connect with others who have similar experiences and challenges.
4. Advocacy: Social media enables individuals to advocate for their rights and needs, promoting inclusivity , driving positive change and can help in accessible communication tools and share stories to raise awareness about communication challenges.
5. Skill Development: Many platforms host online courses and workshops on subjects ranging from art to coding. These can be a flexible way for individuals to learn new skills at their own pace and help them to develop social skills, digital literacy, and even vocational skills. Individuals can showcase their skills and creations on platforms where they can receive feedback, encouragement, and recognition from a wider audience.
6. Therapeutic Outlets: Creative expression through posts, videos, or artwork can serve as therapeutic outlets as they help to boost their self-esteem and emotional well-being.
7. Access to Information: Social media offers a wide range of resources, information, and tools that can be beneficial for people with special needs and their caregivers. Many organizations and news outlets share important updates and information through their social media accounts, ensuring users are well-informed.
8. Social Interaction: For those who may have difficulty with in-person interactions, social media can provide a less intimidating way to connect with others.
However, it is important to note that while social media can be beneficial, it also comes with potential risks, such as cyberbullying or misinformation. Careful guidance and supervision are often necessary, especially for younger individuals with special needs.
Author Sradhanjali Dasgupta
Consultant Psychologist, Speaker , Learning Developmental Coach, Teacher and trainer Miss. Sradhanjali Dasgupta has been extensively working in the field of Counselling and education for the past few years in several Clinics, Hospitals, NGOs and educational sectors. She also contributes her writings and blogs in various newspapers, magazines and e- magazines Her training and workshops are both for the corporate as well as for the educational sector and are geared up for learning and development,upgradation and capacity building. She have actively taken part in many debates