Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu, representing Eti-Osa constituency 02, has taken steps to bring attention to neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism, in an initiative designed to provide support to families involved.

In collaboration with Cradle Lounge, Patrick Speech and Language Centre, Pure Souls Learning Foundation and the GOY Foundation, the four-day free outreach programme aims to assist children with various neurodivergent conditions by offering therapy, counseling to parents and guardians, and ongoing support.

Speaking on the importance of the programme, Hon. Yishawu expressed concern about the growing prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders. “It used to be that one in every hundred children had autism; now it is one in thirty-six, according to US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)” Yishawu said.

He emphasized the need for awareness and the societal inclusion of neurodivergent individuals, noting that with proper therapy, they can thrive and achieve their full potentials in life.

Yishawu also shared that families are often reluctant to discuss these issues openly, a hesitation that this program hopes to overcome.

“We must create awareness, provide platforms for parents to seek support, and ensure the children are not left behind,” he urged. The initiative involved; Physiotherapist, Behavior Analyst, Cerebral Palsy Specialist, General Medical Doctor, Counseling, Pediatrician, Speech Pathologist, Occupational Therapist, Nutritionist, Audiologist, Educationist, Psychologist. Also, long-term support for families, including educational scholarship for a few of those who need additional resources.

Dotun Akande of Pure Souls Learning Foundation and Patrick Speech and Language Centre highlighted the transformative potential of early intervention, stating, “with love, patience, and acceptance, the children can reach their full potential.”

She emphasized that while neurodivergent individuals may learn differently, their contributions to society are invaluable.

Dietician Solape Akinlonu discussed the specific nutritional needs of children with neurodevelopmental disorders, underscoring the importance of personalized dietary plans to address common feeding challenges. “Some children have difficulty with chewing or swallowing, and we teach caregivers how to provide nutritious meals that suit their needs,” Akinlonu explained.

In a related development,Dr. Grace Ojeamiren-Bamigboye, a pathologist specializing in speech and language development with over 30 years experience spoke about the programme’s focus on helping each child reach their potential through individualized strategies. “All children can learn, but the approach matters,” she said, encouraging parents to embrace their child’s unique strengths and develop them.

Founder of Cradle Lounge Special Needs Initiative, Mrs. Solape Azazi, explained the outreach’s goal of ensuring that children with neurodevelopmental disorders are recognized and included. “Programmes like this help families from low-income backgrounds understand that they’re not alone, and we want them to access the support they need,” Azazi said.

The parents who spoke with our correspondent expressed their gratitude to Yishawu, stating that everything they learned would help unlock their children’s potential.

Through this initiative, Hon. Yishawu and partnering organizations hope to expand support across more communities, making it easier for families to find resources and build a more inclusive society for all.