(From left) Dr Khairunnisa, Dr Dharan, (third from right) Dr Rajini, (second from right) PMC ancillary services head Mak Yuet Mei and (right) psychology services, and child development centre unit head Tan Pei Jun presented appreciation tokens to parents who shared their knowledge in caring for autistic children with event attendees.
To highlight autism spectrum disorder and celebrate diversity, ParkCity Medical Centre’s (PMC) child development centre hosted “Colours of Life” in Kuala Lumpur.
PMC chief executive officer Dr Savitha Dharan said Autism Awareness Month was a time to come together as a community to support and celebrate the unique talents of neurodivergent people.
“The event gave us an opportunity to showcase our commitment to fostering an inclusive community.
“Seeing so many families and children coming together while gaining valuable insights was heartwarming,” said Dr Savitha.
A highlight was the sharing session where families exchanged stories of challenges and triumphs involving children with autism.
The session was led by consultant general and developmental paediatrician Dr Rajini Sarvananthan and consultant paediatrician Dr Khairunnisa Mohamad Khalil.
“Every neurodivergent child grows and thrives differently,” said Dr Rajini.
“There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach when it comes to intervention.
“Our role in the centre is to work with families in deciding what intervention would help their children achieve their potential, develop functional skills to be able to navigate challenges and ultimately live fruitful lives.
“For intervention to work, families have to be on board,” Dr Rajini added.
The event also featured a sensory play booth where visitors experienced first-hand the challenges of hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity in autism.
A matching game booth focused on enhancing pre-verbal communication skills.
A mini bazaar featured unique products from local vendors, including those run by individuals with autism, while an art corner showcased the children’s talents.
PMC is also organising a “Beyond the Surface” workshop on May 18 to offer strategies for supporting children’s mental health and development.
