A mother engaging with her child in a game while Loh (left) watches.
OVER 80 children with special needs from SJK (C) Thai Kwang had a fun and enjoyable day at SMI Park in Sibu, Sarawak.
The event was jointly organised by the school along with the Village Development and Safety Committee (JKKK) of Kiew Nang and Kenari.
Committee chairman Connie Loh said the event was not only to bring these children outdoors but to create memories, build connections and nurture their growth.
“Education goes beyond the classroom. While formal education is vital, it is through outdoor activities that children truly get to experience the world around them.
“For children with special needs, these moments of interaction and play are not just fun, they are essential,” said Loh at the event.
She explained that it was through play that children, regardless of their abilities, learn to see the world, solve problems, build self-esteem and improve their motor and social skills.
She said the objectives of the activities were to provide children with an environment where they could explore, interact and – most importantly – feel included, to help them grow into confident, independent individuals.
“Outdoor activities like the ones we have planned today are especially important.
“They offer our children the opportunity to experience the world beyond classroom.
“Here, they can stretch their legs, explore their surroundings and engage in activities tailored to their abilities,” said Loh.
She said such events encouraged children with special needs to be as independent as possible.
She thanked parents and teachers for making the event possible as they helped reinforce the belief that every child, regardless of their challenges, deserved the opportunity to play, learn and grow.
Also present were Sibu Division Unity Department officer Jendi Mangku while District Officer Wee Teck Min was represented by Sylvia Lau. ― By ANDY CHUA
