CHENNAI: Even as Dr Prasanna Robinson, the principal of KIDS Learning Centre for Children with Dyslexia and Learning Difficulties, was concluding her speech to a group of teachers, on how to balance authority with conviction and sensitivity while handling students, two excited little boys rushed in to inform that their van had arrived. They didn’t knock the door nor did they ask themselves to be excused before interrupting. They were back in a moment announcing that two of their classmates were fighting. Softly but firmly, she sends them to their classes assuring that their teachers would soon be with them. It was a Teachers’ Day celebration with a difference at KIDS. Instead of the usual events where the students pay rich encomiums to their teachers, here, the teachers got together and shared their experiences on what it meant to play such a significant role in the lives of these children. They had come a long way with their wards and each accomplishment of their students, however tiny or slow, was lauded with joy and satisfaction.However, their meeting and the special Teachers’ Day lunch was punctuated by the restless children who showed nothing but love and trust in their voices. They may be special educators, speech therapists, occupational therapists and counsellors but to their students they were teachers — people with whom they could be themselves without fear or shame.“Just a few months back, I felt like an utter failure when Vishnupriya forgot the colour yellow even after teaching her for a month. I was helpless. But now, when she readily points out to not just yellow but also green, I feel on top of the world. She is ready for the next colour,” said Elizabeth, who trains Vishnupriya who suffers from autism. To Freeda, the biggest gift was when her student Ezil, who has severe learning disability immediately, obeyed her when she told her something. “These kids have taught us patience, perseverance and poise — virtues which we never knew existed in us before we began teaching them. They make us feel worthy and of use. Now, I don’t even lose temper with my own children at home,” recounted Madhavi, another teacher.KIDS (Kingdom Institute of Development Service), founded by Dr Prasanna and her husband Phanuel Robinson, has been serving children with Dyslexia and Learning Difficulties since 2002. Their core vision is to equip teachers, to educate children and to encourage parents. What began at her house with only a few students, has so far enabled over 400 children to complete their basic education, gain self-esteem and confidence and to get integrated into the mainstream society.The centre functions in two sessions — the morning school caters to children with severe reading and writing difficulty and who are unable to cope in a normal school. Evening remedial classes provide help for children already studying in regular schools. Occupational and speech therapy are also provided. KIDS partners with schools by training teachers and by giving short term remedial programmes. KIDS also conducts a certified, short term course, ‘Teaching children with Dyslexia’, to equip teachers, college students, parents and professionals. KIDS also organises regular get togethers to encourage and educate parents on issues relating to the children. For details, email [email protected]
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