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:: Services for ASD
Samarpan Centre for Autism Spectrum Disorders provides assessment,
intervention, training and therapies to persons with ASD. Samarpan
facilities are used by those belonging to Mumbai and also some
who come from outside Mumbai and from Gulf countries. The centre
employs qualified professionals to develop and implement the intervention
programs
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Human Resource Development Programs
Autism is relatively a new area of disability rehabilitation in
India. Understanding of nature and needs of children with ASD
is inadequate among the professionals and parents. Training programs
are regularly organized for professionals and parents. The effort
is to hold seminars and workshops on various issues of concern
regarding ASD. Programs have been organized on sensory integration,
augmentative & alternative communication, diagnosis and intervention
strategies, legal provisions etc. In January 2005 SOPAN invited
Prof. R.L. Simpson from University of Kansas, USA, to conduct
a 4-day training program on autism spectrum disorders. This program
was attended by parents and professionals from dofferent parts
of India. In-house staff development programs are held regularly
at Samarpan. Additionally,professionals involved with Samarpan
are frequently serve as resource persons for autism training programs
conducted by other organizations
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Library & Information Service
SOPAN has a collection of resource books on ASD. They cover a
wide range of issues such as assessment & diagnosis, intervention
strategies, training and therapies etc. The books are available
for parents and others. Information about ASD is also provided
to those who call or write to us. SOPAN plans to publish a newsletter
on ASD soon.
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Community Awareness & Advocacy
Several talks and informal discussions have been held for social
and religious groups as part of community awareness. SOPAN encourages
involvement of volunteers at Samarpan as this increases community
awareness and participation. Information leaflets and flyers have
been printed for general public. Exhibition and sale of items
produced by students of Samarpan are held annually. SOPAN members
have participated in formulating a memorandum (pertaining to ASD
issues) sent to the Govt. of India.
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Research & Development
Though on a small scale, SOPAN has started research activities.
Some projects such as Parent Enrichment Program are being documented.
Samarpan professionals have conducted research studies on Discrete
Trial Teaching, Alternative & Augmentative Communication etc.
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Network & Parent Support
SOPAN believes in cooperation and collaboration with organizations
that work for autism in India. We participate in meetings and
public campaigns held by others. Member parents are encouraged
to meet informally for social interaction, picnics, and outings
etc.
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