This project will enable the Rwanda Down Syndrome Organisation (RDSO) to train family members and teachers in Rwanda to support the development of children with Down syndrome. This project has two parts: 1. An intensive 'training of trainers' workshop run by DSi in Kigali to train RDSO staff and volunteers to become early development trainers; 2. Training workshops run by RDSO for teachers and parents on how best to support children with Down syndrome in their early development.
In Rwanda teachers and parents of children with Down syndrome often lack basic information about Down syndrome and how to support the early development of children with Down syndrome. This means that children with Down syndrome don't learn and develop to their full potential, leading to social exclusion and a lack of opportunities later in life.
This project will provide comprehensive training for teachers and parents on everything they need to know about the early development of children with Down syndrome, including: cognition, movement and play; developing communication, language and speech; supporting learning; social emotional development and behaviour. This project will enable trainees to feel confident to support children with Down syndrome at home or in classroom settings.
In the long term, building the understanding and skills of teachers and parents related to early development will enable them to support children with Down syndrome to develop to their full potential. This will lead to better outcomes, more opportunities and improved social inclusion later in life.
