Constituency Served

autistic, mentally retarded children and those with learning difficulties, 3 ½ -17 years.

Details of Work

BLESS is a school for 18 children with autism, mental retardation and learning disabilities. Located in the home of the programme director, it is the only school which offers an academic programme within a home environment. The school endeavours to make children adapt themselves to their homes before they are mainstreamed into society. It has been successful in sending some children to mainstream schools, factories and other environments. BLESS trains children for the National Open School and also guides them to vocational training depending on their aptitude. It teaches meditation to help develop concentration and mental ability. It also lays emphasis on educating parents and involving them. Since most of the children come from economically disadvantaged households, the education is free. However, those who are willing, pay according to their capacity. The school conducts night camps, field visits to the planetarium and national park and organises boating trips. It has a panel of doctors who give free consultation. The school has a tie-up with one pharmacy that supplies free medicines.