Early Intervention for Children in Guatemala

This report corresponds to the first trimester of 2018 from January to March. During this time period, Adisa organized a diverse array of activities including monthly trainings for parents of children with disabilities in three different communities in the department of Sololá, Guatemala. Adisa’s therapists gave parents the tools necessary to stimulate their child’s learning from home.

This trimester, Adisa started early childhood intervention trainings in a new community near Santiago Atitlán. At these trainings, parents worked in teams to identify the barriers that exist locally for people with disabilities. Then, we brainstormed solutions to address these barriers collectively. Ultimately, we want them to feel empowered to raise awareness so to diminish taboos or myths regarding disability within their communities.

With each training that we have had, more families have participated. Those families participating have also become increasingly engaged and invested in these trainings, which in turn translates to better conditions for their children. As attendance and participation in these trainings has improved, we have been able to increase the number of therapy sessions provided. In total, we had 81 therapy sessions in classrooms and 91 at home during this trimester.

Here we highlight the story of five-year-old Keyla, who was diagnosed with a unilateral hip dysplasia. Keyla fell often and always complained to her mother about back pain; however, because of her family's low resources, she was unable to visit a physician. Instead, Keyla’s mother would give her pain killers to manage the pain temporarily.  Keyla’s family learned about Adisa where she was able to join one of our programs and now receives treatment. Keyla started visiting an orthopedist who determined she needed a hip surgery. After surgery and many rehabilitation therapy sessions, Keyla is now able to walk without pain. Keyla is also attending school regularly, has many friends, and is happy.

Keyla and her parents are all tremendously grateful for the support they’ve received from Adisa.