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Brushing through Autism: Kabir Vernal’s Artistic Odyssey

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In the bustling city of Hyderabad, there resides a remarkable young artist named Kabir Vernal. Kabir, just 12 years old, primarily non-speaking and on the Autism Spectrum, possesses an extraordinary talent for expressing himself through the world of art. His journey is a testament to the power of creativity, perseverance, and the innate abilities that lie within neurodiverse individuals.

Kabir’s artistic journey began as a response to his tactile sensory needs, particularly his fascination with sticky textures. His mother, recognizing his need for stimulation and creativity, introduced him to the world of art. Finger painting became Kabir’s gateway to self-expression and the world of colors.

In the early stages, Kabir was encouraged to engage in free play with colors. With no predefined direction, he was allowed to explore his imagination. This freedom to express without boundaries was crucial in nurturing his creative spirit. Kabir’s art quickly evolved into a unique blend of abstract expressionism, abstract floral art, and process art, driven by his love for various textures and inspired by the natural world that surrounds him.

Kabir’s artistic journey challenges the conventional notion of art, where representational or figurative art often takes center stage. His work illustrates that there are countless forms of art, and a neurodiverse mind possesses a special perspective on colors and textures. Abstract expression through colors flows naturally for him, and this unique ability is something that should be celebrated.

Kabir is growing up to be an inquisitive and curious individual, with a mind of his own. Visual art has proven to be a medium through which he has been able to express himself quite beautifully. Kabir enjoys the process of creating art, often choosing the colour palette and the subject of his art. His artwork styles include abstract expressionism, abstract floral art (with loose brush strokes) and process art. He enjoys playing with various textures. Kabir loves spending time outdoors amidst nature and his art is greatly inspired by Nature and his natural surroundings. He is presently home schooled.

Exhibitions and Recognition:
Kabir’s artwork has not only touched the hearts of those around him but has also garnered recognition in the broader art world. His creations have been featured in several national and international art exhibitions, where he has received prizes for his distinct style. His artwork is not just a testament to his talent but also a celebration of the neurodiversity that enriches our world.

Online Presence:
Kabir shares his art with a global audience through social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram. His work is available for sale on the Atypical Advantage website, which aims to generate livelihood opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). Kabir’s participation in international virtual exhibitions further extends his reach to art enthusiasts around the world.

Awards and Achievements:
Kabir’s talent shines brightly in the array of awards he has received. Notably, he was a joint second-place winner in the Junior category of the Indian Art Carnival, Season 2, and a gold medalist in the 27th Star Future Artist virtual art exhibition. His unique artwork has received recognition in international competitions, earning him certificates of excellence and the Nandalal Bose Award.

Future Prospects:
As Kabir continues to explore the world of art and contribute to the broader conversation on neurodiversity, his future is filled with immense potential. With each brushstroke and color palette selection, he is breaking barriers and proving that art transcends boundaries.

Kabir’s journey is not just about creating beautiful art; it’s a testament to the limitless possibilities that exist within each individual, regardless of their unique abilities. His story is an inspiration for all of us to embrace and celebrate the diverse perspectives and talents that enrich our world.


Kabir Vernal’s SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/artbykabir/
Instagram: @artby.kabir

SOLO ART EXHIBITION:
His first Solo Art Exhibition was held between 16th and 19th September, 2023 at Arpana Fine Art Gallery, Siri Fort Institutional Area, New Delhi


PARTICIPATION IN NATIONAL ART EXHIBITIONS:
1) National Talent Hunt in Art for Youths: 5th Edition, Pandit Bhimsen Joshi Kaladan Art Gallery, Pune, May 6-8, 2022
2) Maqaam- National Art Exhibition, Arpana Fine Art Gallery, New Delhi, July 17-21, 2022
3) Beyond Limits 2022: National Level Annual Exhibition of artworks made by artists with Disabilities, Family of Disabled, Arpana Fine Art Gallery, New Delhi, December 2-10, 2022
4) Safar-e—Maqaam, Group Art Exhibition, Arpana Fine Art Gallery, New Delhi, February 25-27, 2023
5) Soch ke Rang, An Inclusive Art Show and Fundraiser, Soch Autism Society Punjab, Jalandhar, April 3, 2023
6) Views from Planet Autism, Group Show, Action for Autism, Open Palm Court Gallery, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, April 11-13, 2023
7) Soch ke Rang, An Inclusive Art Show and Fundraiser, Soch Autism Society Punjab and The House of Labels, Amritsar, April 22, 2023
8) Art Connects: A Visual Exploration of Autism, April 28 (for two weeks) 2023, at National Gallery of Modern Art, Jaipur House, New Delhi
9) Soch ke Rang, An Inclusive Art Show and Fundraiser, Soch Autism Society Punjab, Chandigarh, May 28, 2023.
10) Beyond Limits 2023: National Level Annual Exhibition of artworks made by artists with Disabilities, Family of Disabled, Arpana Fine Art Gallery, New Delhi, October 20-27,2023 (to be held)
11) Creative Kids 2023,National Level Art Exhibition, Kalanirvana International Art Gallery, Bhubaneshwar, November 11-26, 2023 (to be held)


PARTICIPATION IN INTERNATIONAL ART EXHIBITIONS
International Art Competition “The Future”, curated by Janaritta Armooti and the Embassy of India, in Amman, Jordan, December 2023 (to be held)


PARTICIPATION IN INTERNTIONAL ART EXHIBITIONS (Virtual)
1) 6th Edition of My Dream World Child Artists’ International Art Exhibition, 2022
2) 1st edition of online International Exhibition of Iranian and Indian artists, March 2023 (organized by MahZad Art Gallery, Ronisa Art Group, Tejashree Creations Institute)
3) Artistic Genesis 2023 organized by Picasso Art Contest

PARTICIPATION IN NATIONAL ART EXHIBITIONS (Virtual)
1) Top 10 Child Artists 2023, April 9-May 9, 2023, Tejashree Creations and Kalanirvana International
2) 27th Star Future Artist, organized by Manikarnika Art Gallery, June 23rd to July 2nd, 2023
3) Indian Art Carnival, Season 3, 2023


WINNER IN ART CONTESTS:
1) In the Under 18 category, Kabir’s Art “Pincushion” won Third Place in the Art of Autism Women’s History Month Contest, 2022 (https://the-art-of-autism.com/the-art-of-autism-announces-winners-of-womens-history-month-art-contest/)
2) In the 6th Edition of My Dream World Child Artists’ International Art Exhibition (Virtual), Kabir won a Certificate of Excellence for “Spontaneous Work”, 2022
3) Kabir won a Joint Second Place in the Junior category of an online Art competition (Indian Art Carnival, Season 1, 2022)
4) Kabir won a Joint Second Place in the Junior category of an online Art competition (Indian Art Carnival, Season 2, 2023)
5) Kabir was placed in the Top 10 (for Colour Style & Texture) in the Top 10 Child Artist International Virtual Art Exhibition, April 9-May 9, 2023, Tejashree Creations and Kalanirvana International. The virtual art exhibition had around 30 child artist participants from India, Iran, UAE, USA, UK, Hongkong, Sri Lanka and Turkey.
6) Kabir won a Gold medal, in the Junior Artist Category of the 27th Star Future Artist, in a Virtual art exhibition organized by Manikarnika Art Gallery, June 23rd to July 2nd, 2023.
7) Kabir won an award as a Silver Artist in a virtual International art contest, Artistic Genesis 2023 organized by Picasso Art Contest.
8) Kabir won the Nandalal Bose Award in the Junior group for ‘Outstanding Artwork’ in the Indian Art Carnival, Season 3, 2023

• Kabir’s Art is Sold via the Atypical Advantage website:
https://atypicaladvantage.in/search?query=Kabir+Vernal
**Atypical Advantage is India’s largest integrated platform for generating livelihood for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs)
• In 2022, he was selected (with other artists in Hyderabad) to paint the façade of the Pepperfry Studio in Banjara Hills, Road no. 12, by Atypical Advantage, for Diwali.

Author Shilpi Mayank Awasthi, Founder SpecialSaathi

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The Silent Struggles of Special Needs Mothers: A Call for Empathy and Support


Motherhood is often described as one of the most rewarding experiences in a woman’s life. However, for mothers of children with special needs, the journey can be marked by unique challenges that extend beyond the boundaries of parenting. These remarkable women not only grapple with the daily demands of caring for their children’s unique conditions but also face blame and negative prejudices from their own family and friends, including their husbands.

Today’s blog sheds light on the difficulties faced by special needs mothers and also advocates for a residential assisted living solution that can provide them with much-needed support and a path to financial independence.

The Silent Struggles

Blame and misunderstanding can be profoundly challenging for mothers of children with special needs. These mothers often face a unique set of circumstances that make these issues particularly impactful on their lives.


1. The Weight of Responsibility: Special needs mothers carry the tremendous weight of responsibility for their children’s well-being. They often become the primary caregivers, managing medical appointments, therapies, and educational needs which includes their homeschooling as well. This constant demand can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion.

2. Self-Blame: Mothers of children with special needs may grapple with self-blame, questioning if they could have done something differently during pregnancy or infancy to prevent their child’s condition. These feelings of self-blame can be persistent in this journey and emotionally draining as well.

3. Blame and Misunderstanding by Family: Sadly, some special needs mothers find themselves blamed for their children’s conditions, whether directly or indirectly. Friends and family may harbor misconceptions or place unrealistic expectations on them, believing that they somehow caused their child’s disabilities; or tendency to blame them for every setback or attribute every aspect of a child’s behavior to parental neglect. This burden of blame adds an extra layer of emotional distress.

4. Lack of Understanding: Misunderstanding from others can be a constant source of frustration. Friends, family members, and even strangers may lack a true understanding of the challenges special needs mothers face. This can lead to insensitive comments, unsolicited advice, or judgmental attitudes, exacerbating feelings of isolation.

5. Strained Marital Relationships: The stress of caring for a child with special needs can strain relationships within the family. Misunderstandings and disagreements about the best course of action for the child can lead to conflict between parents, siblings, or extended family members.
The strains of caring for a child with special needs can take a toll on marriages. In some cases, husbands may struggle to cope with the challenges and changes that come with raising a child with disabilities. This can lead to marital tension and even separation or divorce.

6. Financial Dependence: Majority of special needs mothers are financially dependent on their husbands due to the time-consuming, physically and mentally exhausting nature of caregiving. They often cannot pursue traditional employment opportunities, leaving them financially vulnerable in the event of a divorce or the death of their spouse. The costs of medical treatments, therapies, and specialized equipment can be overwhelming. These financial stressors can lead to anxiety and can impact the family’s overall well-being.

7. Social Isolation: The constant struggle against blame and misunderstanding can lead to social isolation. Mothers may withdraw from social activities or friendships due to the fear of judgment or the exhaustion of having to constantly explain their child’s condition.
The demands of caring for a child with special needs can make it challenging to maintain friendships and engage in social activities. This isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness and a lack of emotional support.

8. Balancing Act: Balancing the needs of a child with special needs alongside other family responsibilities is a constant juggling act. Special needs mothers often have to prioritize their child’s needs, sometimes at the expense of their own well-being and personal aspirations.

9. Stigma, Judgment and Society’s Expectations: Society often places immense pressure on mothers to provide the best care for their children. When a child has special needs, these expectations can become even more demanding. Mothers may feel blamed for their child’s condition, as if it’s somehow their fault, leading to feelings of guilt and self-doubt. Special needs mothers may also face stigma, comparisons and judgment from society and from their special needs community, at times. Misunderstandings and insensitive comments can add to their emotional burden. The need for greater awareness and acceptance of families with special needs children is essential.

10. Advocacy and Empowerment Fatigue: Despite the challenges, many special needs mothers become fierce advocates for their children. They work tirelessly to raise awareness, educate others, and push for inclusive policies. This advocacy can be a source of empowerment and a way to combat the blame and misunderstanding they face.
Advocating for their child’s rights and needs within the healthcare systems, educational systems, in their neighborhood and in society as a whole can be exhausting. Special needs mothers often have to navigate complex bureaucracies and fight for the services their child requires.

11. Educational Challenges: Special needs mothers are often deeply involved in their child’s education, either in homeschooling or advocating for appropriate accommodations and services in the schools. Misunderstandings with school educators, administration or teachers can create tension and feelings of blame, as mothers fight for their child’s rights.

12. Uncertain Future: The uncertainty about their child’s future can be a constant source of worry. Special needs mothers may wonder who will care for their child when they are no longer able to do so. Planning for the long-term and thinking about the constant fear of “What after us..” can be emotionally taxing.

13. Self-Care Struggles: Taking time for self-care can be a challenge for special needs mothers. They often prioritize their child’s needs above their own, which can lead to burnout and a decline in their own physical and mental health.

14. Celebrating Small Victories: Amidst the struggles, special needs mothers find strength in celebrating the small victories and milestones their children achieve. These moments of joy and progress provide motivation to continue their tireless efforts.

15.Resilience and Love: Despite the silent struggles they face, special needs mothers demonstrate remarkable resilience and unwavering love for their children. Their dedication and unconditional support are a testament to the power of a mother’s love in the face of adversity.

Blame and misunderstanding are indeed crucial factors and a constant struggle in the life of a mother with a child with special needs. These mothers face a myriad of challenges, from societal pressures to self-doubt, all while tirelessly advocating for their child’s well-being. It is important for society to provide support, empathy, sense of understanding and feasible solutions to help alleviate the burdens these mothers carry and to recognize the strength and resilience they demonstrate every day.


A Solution: Residential Assisted Living

The challenges faced by special needs mothers call for a holistic and compassionate solution. One such solution could be the establishment of residential assisted living facilities designed to support these mothers and their children, in case they want to move away from their family due to above mentioned silent struggles.

Here’s what such facilities could offer:

1. Counseling and Emotional Support:
Residential facilities could provide mothers with access to professional counseling services, helping them cope with the emotional toll of caregiving, blame, and strained relationships.

2. Childcare and Therapy Services:
These facilities could offer specialized childcare services, including therapies and educational support tailored to each child’s needs. This would allow mothers to focus on self-care and personal development.

3. Vocational Training and Employment Assistance:
To empower these mothers with financial independence, vocational training programs could be implemented within the residential setting. Mothers could acquire new skills or receive assistance in finding suitable employment based on their education, previous work experience, and current abilities.

4. Inclusive Living Spaces:
The living spaces within these facilities should be designed to accommodate both mothers and their children comfortably. This inclusive environment would foster a sense of community and mutual support.

Conclusion

Special needs mothers are unsung heroes who navigate a challenging path filled with love, dedication, and perseverance. It is essential for society to recognize their struggles and offer practical solutions that can alleviate their burdens. Establishing residential assisted living facilities tailored to the needs of these mothers and their children is a step toward providing them with the support, empathy, and opportunities they deserve. Not only this, professional Counseling services/psychological help dedicated specifically for caregivers stress should be mandatory during initial assessment process during their child interventions. Encouraging more and more parent empowerment programs is a way ahead. This way we can really honor their unwavering commitment to their children and help them lead fulfilling lives despite the obstacles they face.


I hope this blog hits the right chord and resonates with society, shedding light on the unsung heroes, be it mothers or fathers. May it foster respect, empathy, and unconditional support, reducing misunderstandings, judgments, and questioning in the future.

Thank you for reading! If you liked today’s blog, do leave your valuable comments and feedbacks below.

Author Shilpi Mayank Awasthi
Founder SpecialSaathi

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ADHD (Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) in children- An Overview

ADHD (Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) in children


Symptoms of ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) in Children
The following characteristics are indicative of ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) in children:


1. carelessness
2. Antisocial behaviour
3. In impulsivity
4. Low self-esteem


The most common causes of childhood ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) are as follows:

● Pre- Natal
● Post Natal
● Peri Natal

1. Genetic mutations
2. environmental factors
3. previous infection
4. brain injury


Risk factors for childhood ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder).
The following factors increase the likelihood of a child developing ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder):

1. Premature birth
2. Genetic mutations in genes associated with dopamine neurotransmission
3. smoking cigarettes
4. Alcohol use
5. Drug use during pregnancy
6. Environmental toxicity exposure
7. low birth weight
8. brain injury

Is there any Prevention of childhood ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder)?
No, childhood ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) cannot be prevented.
A 7-repeat mutation in the dopamine receptor D4 (DRD4-7R) gene is responsible for this mutation, so it cannot be prevented. Although treatments are highly available

Incidence of childhood ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder).
Number of incidents:
The number of cases of childhood ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) worldwide each year is as follows:
Very common &gt ; 10 million cases

General age range of patients:
Children with ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) have the highest number of clients in the following age ranges:
Less than 18 years old
This disease is more common in people of the gender:
Children of any gender can develop ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder).

Tests to diagnose childhood ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder)

● The following tests are used to diagnose ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) in children
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) Criteria:

Doctors to diagnose ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) in children
If symptoms of ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) occur in children, the client should consult a Consultant specialising in the following:
1. Psychiatrist
2. Psychologist
3. Special Educator

Steps to Treat Child ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder):

The following steps are followed to treat ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) in children:

1. Behavioural Therapy: Learn to reinforce the positive behaviours and treat unwanted or problem behaviours

2. Self-care for children with ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).
The following is a list of self-care or lifestyle changes that may be helpful in treating or managing childhood ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder):
1. Try to keep a regular schedule for eating, sleeping and sleeping: Create a schedule for your healthy meals, bedtime or sleep.
2. Rest: Take a break and rest for some time
3. Identify difficult situations: Avoid difficult situations

Alternative medicine for the treatment of childhood ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder).

Some alternative medications and therapies that may be helpful in treating or managing childhood ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) include:
1. Yoga or Meditation: Relax and learn discipline
2. Neurofeedback training: Learn to learn brain wave patterns that activate the front of the brain
3. Exercise: Exercise regularly

Medical support for patients with paediatric ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).
Following can be effective for children with ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder):
1. Show the child a lot of love: Avoid focusing on the negative aspects of the child’s behaviour and praise the child
2. Spend time together with the child: Give more positive than negative attention to the child on a daily basis
3. Strive for healthy family relationships: Build good relationships among family members

During the treatment of childhood ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder).
Although the time-frame of treatment varies for different individuals, if properly treated under the supervision of a specialist, the time-frame for child ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) to come under control is as follows:
The disease cannot be treated but only maintained or reduced in effect

Author Sradhanjali Dasgupta

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mysupersaathi

MySuperSaathi Yuvi and his friends

Autism awareness – Comic strip 6

Designer – Yuvaan is an energetic and a happy 5+ year old child studying in grade 1.
• He loves his academics, coloring, computers, maths, reading books and writing stories.
• He loves visiting new places, and leisure activities like swimming, running and playing
• He’s amongst the top rankers in Genius Cerebrum International Olympiads of all the subjects.
• He has bagged number of awards, certificates and medals in academics, sports and co-cirruclar activities.
• He is a self learner.


Artist Kabir Vernal

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mysupersaathi

MySuperSaathi Yuvi and his friends

Autism awareness- Comic strip 5

Designer – Yuvaan is an energetic and a happy 5+ year old child studying in grade 1.
• He loves his academics, coloring, computers, maths, reading books and writing stories.
• He loves visiting new places, and leisure activities like swimming, running and playing
• He’s amongst the top rankers in Genius Cerebrum International Olympiads of all the subjects.
• He has bagged number of awards, certificates and medals in academics, sports and co-cirruclar activities.
• He is a self learner.

Artist Morpheus Nag