Help Special Need Kids/Siblings Learn From Groups

In the world of children with mild autism, every small step forward is backed by countless falls and restarts of courage.

Fan is a child with mild autism. From the age of two and a half, we embarked on a long journey of early intervention, shuttling between hospitals. At that time, his language development was delayed, he had difficulty concentrating, and his fixation behaviors and social difficulties made it seem as if an invisible wall separated him from the world.

We also enrolled him in school clubs, but he was asked to withdraw after only two sessions. At that moment, as his mother, I was truly heartbroken.

Just as he was about to enter first grade, through the sharing of other parents in early intervention programs, we entered the "An' An Slow Angels’ Family Support Association." This is not just a place for classes, but also a space where parents can breathe and where children can try all sorts of possibilities. Among the diverse activities, Fan found his favorite activity—inline skating.

To date, he has been practicing steadily for four semesters. Recalling his first lesson, every step was a challenge for him, given his sensory integration and balance deficiencies. During that time, he fell frequently, and the frustration made him so anxious he considered giving up. Watching his frustrated figure, I felt both heartache and inner turmoil. But the coach patiently supported him, creating an encouraging environment that helped Fan get back up again and again, even amidst screams and tears.

This perseverance paid off in second grade. Fan represented his school in the Special Olympics rollerblading competition and won second place. The radiance on his face when he put on his medal was something we had never imagined.

Now, every Saturday afternoon is his most anticipated time. From a child who couldn't even stand steadily to now gliding freely and moving forward against the wind, he has regained his confidence through sports. That joy of facing the wind has also gradually compensated for his struggles with language expression, allowing him to connect with the world through his body.

These activities might just be talents for other children, but for Fan , a child with developmental delays, they are crucial life-changing training. Watching Fan glide against the wind, I firmly believe that with enough companionship and a suitable stage, every child with developmental delays can glide their own wonderful life.

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