Latest update November 1st, 2024 12:59 AM
Nov 01, 2024 Letters
Dear Editor,
I am writing to shed light on an important topic that affects many individuals and families in our society: intellectual disabilities. This category of disability remains the most prevalent diagnosed to date in Guyana.
Understanding what intellectual disabilities are, along with their causes and symptoms, is crucial for fostering awareness and support for those who live with these challenges. Some types of intellectual disabilities are Down syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome etc.
Intellectual disabilities, often characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning (learning) and adaptive behavior (unable to do day to day activities), manifest before the age of 18. This means that individuals may have difficulty with reasoning, problem-solving, planning, abstract thinking, judgment, academic learning, and learning from experience. These challenges can affect a person’s ability to communicate, socialize, and function independently.
The causes of intellectual disabilities are varied and can be attributed to a combination of genetic, environmental, and social factors. Some common causes include:
Symptoms of intellectual disabilities can vary widely, but some common indicators include:
– Delays in reaching developmental milestones (e.g., speaking, walking)
– Difficulty with problem-solving and reasoning tasks
– Challenges in learning and applying academic skills
– Trouble with social interactions and understanding social cues
– Limitations in self-care and daily living skills
The Ministry of Education has taken a proactive approach to addressing this situation; creating a screening packet, creating a SEND programme at the teachers’ college with a focus on intellectual disabilities, having a curriculum for these learners, procuring adaptive furniture, creating home programmes where needed for those too severely affected to be in school, having teacher-aides in classrooms to support learners and establish additional SEND spaces to support their unique learning needs.
It is essential to recognize that individuals with intellectual disabilities have unique strengths and abilities. Early intervention, appropriate educational strategies, and supportive environments can make a significant difference in their lives, a position that the ministry of education embraces.
Sincerely
Keon Cheong
(Understanding Intellectual Disabilities)
October 1st turn off your lights to bring about a change!
Nov 01, 2024
ESPNcricinfo – The only way is up as England seek to reboot their once-glorious white-ball fortunes, but on the evidence of a deeply one-sided first ODI against West Indies, the journey to the...…Peeping Tom Kaieteur News- Now, according to Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, the government’s anti-corruption system... more
By Sir Ronald Sanders Kaieteur News – There is an alarming surge in gun-related violence, particularly among younger... more
Freedom of speech is our core value at Kaieteur News. If the letter/e-mail you sent was not published, and you believe that its contents were not libellous, let us know, please contact us by phone or email.
Feel free to send us your comments and/or criticisms.
Contact: 624-6456; 225-8452; 225-8458; 225-8463; 225-8465; 225-8473 or 225-8491.
Or by Email: [email protected] / [email protected]