New Horizons GroupNew Horizons Group’s comprehensive inter-disciplinary program New Horizons...
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New Horizons Group NEWSLETTER (QPM/ MNL-01, Vol. III Issue 2) | March, 2017 Developmental Pediatrician Dr. Samir Dalwai (MD, DNB, DCH, FCPS, DNB and LLB) founded New Horizons Child Development Centre (NHCDC now NHD) in 2003. NHD has developed 5 centres and currently houses a team of more than 60 paramedical professionals. NHD provides multi-disciplinary services to more than 300 children daily with a ratio of one specialist to one child in each intervention session. New Horizons Health & Research Foundation (NHHRF now NHF), is a registered non-profit organization [Reg.No.U85100MH2012NPL2385 6; No.DIT(E)/80G/111/N/2014-15], which works in the areas of health, impairment and early childhood development. NHF follows a four-pronged approach: Research, Rehabilitation, Advocacy and Training. Established in 2014, New Horizons Institute of Education & Research (NHIER now NHI) is the educational wing of NHG. In May, 2015, TATA INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES (TISS), Mumbai and NHF entered a collaboration and offer diploma courses in Special Education and Rehabilitation Psychology. New Horizons Education and Training Solutions (NHETS now NHS) provides highly specialized solutions to schools in Mumbai. Our specialists are deputed at the school on a customized basis for conducting evaluation, intervention and counseling for children with academic, emotional and behavioural concerns. Dr. Waheeda Pagarkar started the New Horizons Audiology (NHA) and Hearing Aid Centre for Adults and Children in August 2014. In its first year, NHA has seen around 400 patients, out of which 20 were adults and the remaining 380 were children. 35 patients were diagnosed with hearing loss of varying type and degree while 10 were prescribed with hearing aids. 1. The team at University of California-Davis (UC-Davis), MIND institute, USA, which includes eminent developmental and behavioral pediatrician and the Medical Director of the MIND Institute at UC Davis, Dr. Randi Hagerman; Clinical Professor of Neurology in the Department of Neurology, California Northstate University College of Medicine, Dr. Flora Tassone; Former Executive Director of the National Fragile X Foundation, USA, Mr. Robert Miller and Secretary of the Fragile X Foundation of India, Ms. Ami Kothari visited New Horizons Child Development Centre (Goregaon West) on March 3, 2017. New Horizons Group’s comprehensive inter-disciplinary program New Horizons Developmental Program (NHDP) was discussed with the team from UC Davis, along with our research publications and the large volume of data on children with developmental disorders that NH has generated. We got several leads and guidance on conducting further research in Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) and advice on conducting the Special Fragile X OPD, medications for children with FXS and genetic testing of children. 2. A CME on “Intellectual Disability, Autism and Fragile X: Clinical Approach and Management” was organized by the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), Mumbai in association with IAP Chapter of Neurodevelopmental Pediatrics, Nanavati Super Speciality Hospital, Fragile X Society of India and New Horizons Health and Research Foundation. With great response from all over Mumbai, 200 participants attended this CME where faculty from UC Davis, Mind Institute of California spoke on the genetic, clinical, research, intervention and parent advocacy aspects of Fragile X, Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Speakers and participants included Dr. Randi Hagerman, Dr. Flora Tassone, Dr. Stephanie Sherman, Mr. Robert Miller, Dr. Anne Skomorowsky, Dr. Suma Shankar, Dr. Rashid Merchant, Dr. Samir Dalwai, Dr. Murlidhar Mahajan, Dr. Tushar Maniar, Dr. Ravindra Chittal, Dr. Pawan Sureka, Dr. Barkha Chawla, Ms. Shalini Kedia, Dr. Aditi Shah and Dr. Jagruti Sanghvi. 3. 4. National Consensus Guidelines for management of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Specific Learning Disorder (LD) drafted by Dr. Samir Dalwai and Team NHF in collaboration with senior Paediatricians at Indian Academy of Paediatrics, were submitted to Indian Paediatrics journal earlier this year. Guidelines for ASD, ADHD and SLD have been accepted for publication!!! No country in Asia so far, has drafted National Guidelines for these developmental disorders. It is critical to note that large numbers of children in India are affected by these disorders and framing national guidelines is the first big step, in order to standardize clinical practices in the country and influence future health policy. 5. Team NHF has completed coding the data for a total of (approx.) 2295 children who reported during 2013-2015. Data was reviewed from their psychological evaluation reports in order to map the diagnostic and clinical profiles and draft the largest epidemiology paper of NH on Developmental Disorders. We are in the process of drafting another paper on the progress of these children after intervention (n = 286 -> 2015 data). Currently, we are analyzing the data in order to draft these two papers. We are also analyzing the effect of predictors on response to intervention, in children with ASD. 6. Campus Recruitments were conducted at D.Y.Patil College of Physiotherapy, Chaitanya College of Physiotherapy, Pune and MAEERS College of Physiotherapy, Pune for recruitment of Developmental Specialists at New Horizons. The campus drive has successfully generated interest of 12 candidates who wish to work with New Horizons. 7. Dr.Samir Dalwai has embarked on a new service for children at NH by initiating the Fragile X and Dysmorphology OPD which was started on Tuesday 21st February 2017 where 3 children with Fragile X were evaluated and their detailed clinical evaluation and management program was discussed with the family. The 1st Tuesday of every month will be dedicated by Dr. Samir Dalwai and the team of NH Fellows in Developmental and For exciting career opportunities with New Horizons Group, click here: http://www.enablemychild.org/new-horizons-group/nhg-careers/ Dr. Samir Dalwai (Left) in discussion with Dr. Randi Hagerman, Mr. Robert Miller, Dr. Flora Tassone and Ms. Ami Kothari UPDTATE FROM NEW HORIZONS HEALTH AND RESEARCH FOUNDATION (NHF): P VALUE OF WORK DONE IN MARCH 2017 WAS <0.05 (MEANING, SIGNIFICANT!!) Dr. Samir Dalwai Speaking at HEPATICON 2017 Behavioural Pediatrics for this super-speciality OPD for children with dysmorphology and/or Fragile X and the 3rd Tuesday of every month will be dedicated for children with neuro-motor concerns. These super-speciality OPDs will help in the detailed clinical, neurological and genetic work-up needed for effective management of interventions and the required guidance for their families. NHD - Dadar (East) 1st Floor, Jeevak Nursing Home, Sai Kunj, MMSG Marg, Dadar (East), Mumbai - 400 014. Tel: 022 65287397 / 022 24144596 / 7506171230 NHD - Bhandup (West) Pawar Public School, Opp. Dreams Mall, Off LBS Marg, Bhandup (West), Mumbai - 400 078. Tel: 022 21663024 / 9769669332 NHD and NHA Goregaon (West) 2nd Floor,Techniplex II, Techniplex Complex, Veer Savarkar Flyover, Goregaon (West), Mumbai - 400 062. Tel: 022 60600650 / 7506171240 NHD - Goregaon (East) Ground Floor, Saira Mansion, Pahadi School Road 2, Goregaon (East), Mumbai - 400 063. Tel: 022 65711586 NHD - Santa Cruz (West) Shop No. 47, 1st Floor, Hi-Life Mall, Opp. Santa Cruz Station, Santa Cruz (West), Mumbai - 400 054. Tel: 022 26465649 / 9819224415 www.enablemychild.org [email protected] www.facebook.com/newhorizonscdc New Horizons Group - www.enablemychild.org LEARNING TO TEACH AND TEACHING TO LEARN – BY MS. DIKSHITA CHOUDHURY A SALUTE TO TEACHERS – BY MS. LOPAMUDRA DUTTA STOP PRESS!! SNAPSHOTS!! MY INTERNSHIP AT NEW HORIZONS – BY MS. RIDA SHEIKH Psychology is the science of human behaviour and the things in the mind that create behaviour. It’s a subject that fascinates everyone because we all have different notions of what is “normal” and what is not. I have always been curious about human behaviour and the mind. Why humans do certain things and why humans do not do certain things. For example, it was never stated that while standing in the elevator we have to face the door, but everyone still does that, because it is thought to be “normal”. The reason that I have been so keen on pursuing Psychology as my career is, so that I could help people. Those people who for years have been given labels as “mad”, “abnormal’, “crazy”, and what not! But that is not true. Having a psychological disorder is not something bad and should not be looked down upon. Just like how normal diseases like fever or cold are treated, even psychological disorders can be treated. People need to stop being afraid to approach psychologists for help due to fear of what society thinks. I have always been fascinated by the human mind but I started thinking of it as a career when I got the opportunity to have psychology as a subject in Podar International School while doing my A Levels. This is when I actually learned about a number of things. I have studied about schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, phobias and substance abuse disorder in detail. My psychology teacher at Podar had recommended that I come and intern at New Horizons. I have now been interning with New Horizons Health and Research Foundation (NHF) for around 3 months. I have gained a tremendous amount of experience and knowledge at the age of only 17 years, under the mentorship of Dr. Samir Dalwai, Ms. Deepti Kanade-Modak, Dr. Ameya Bondre, Ms. Diksha Gajria and my fellow intern, Ms. Mohita Munot. I am very grateful to them for giving me the opportunity to do such valuable work and trusting me enough to let me help analyse NHD data by coding the psychology reports, analysing the data, and making graphical representations of the collected data. I have also been given the chance to observe OPD sessions and intervention sessions where I got to learn and observe cases of Autism, ADHD, Specific Learning Disorder, Intellectual Disability, Cerebral Palsy, Down’s Syndrome and children with behavioural concerns. The knowledge I have gained over the past 3 months working with NHF is going to help me in making my professional vision a reality! Ms. Rida Sheikh 1ST ANNUAL CONFERENCE BY NEW HORIZONS INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION AND RESEARCH (NHI) IN COLLABORATION WITH THE SCHOOL OF HUMAN ECOLOGY, TATA INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES (TISS), MUMBAI: CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS: A RATIONAL APPROACH A conference on ‘Child Development and Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Rational Approach’ was conducted by New Horizons Institute of Education and Research (NHI) in collaboration with The School of Human Ecology, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai, on 15th January, 2017 in Mumbai. This was the first Annual Conference conducted by NHI and The School of Human Ecology, TISS, Mumbai. The conference saw an amalgamation of more than two hundred and thirty-two delegates with stalwart speakers from varied fields of Developmental Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Psychology and Special Education. The program was honoured by the presence of eminent film-maker and writer, Mr. Amole Gupte who has received many accolades for his work in films like Taare Zameen Par and Stanley Ka Dabba. The conference was declared open by Mr. Jimmy Garda, General Manager, New Horizons Group after a very motivational welcome address where he spoke about the rationale and scope of the conference. He briefed the audience about the New Horizons Group and the collaboration of Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) with NHI, the importance of 'Label to Enable' and how we can refrain from merely labeling children. The conference was divided into four symposiums. Each symposium had a theme and a take-home message at the end of it. As NHI's First Annual Conference in collaboration with TISS, supported by Team New Horizons, it has been a wonderful experience as the conference was well received and NHI looks forward towards it's next one! New Horizons Institute of Education and Research (NHI) conducts a one year full-time ‘Post Graduate Diploma in Special Education’ course in collaboration with Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai. As part of the course, the current batch of students did their internship with sixty-six children from two schools in Mumbai. The authorities from the school identified children with academic and behavioural concerns. The students initially conducted academic assessments at both the schools and based upon the impressions, they conducted one-to-one interventions with the children. The two schools which have been kind enough to allow successful interventions are - Goregaon English School, Goregaon East and Parisar Asha at Nityanand Marg BMC School, Andheri (E). At Goregaon English School, the students worked with forty-four children from Junior K.G. to Grade VIII. The interventions were conducted thrice a week for four hours a day. At NityanandMarg BMC School, the students worked with twenty children from Junior K.G. and Senior K.G. The interventions were conducted twice a week on Tuesdays and Fridays for four hours per day. During the intervention, the students prepared teacher-learner aids, filled daily logsheets, and planned activities beneficial for the students. After the one-to-one interventions were completed, re-evaluations were conducted to document the progress in response to intervention. The intervention program started on the 17th of November 2017 and was terminated on the 10th of March 2017. It was truly a fruitful experience for the students as they learnt a variety of skills during the intervention under the guidance of faculty members at NHI. The essence of any school curriculum is ‘learning’, whereby knowledge, skills and habits are etched out in the minds of an individual through instruction, training, sharing, and communicating. On reflection, the 80s and 90s era, education was effortless. We learned. We were educated and not to forget, there were many of us who would say that studying had never been our forte. Back then, curriculum involved learning in all aspects, formal and informal. There was time to study, to play, for hobbies, for interests, to read and to cram before exams! I remember a girl from my neighbourhood: she was different. She never behaved like the rest of the girls of her age, nor did she have any inclination to study - she never sought appreciation from the teachers for her grades. During examinations, she would not attempt to write. Her feat - she would crack us up with her amazing narration of jokes. We were left to wonder at her amazing artistic mind- her portraits were WOW: a treat to the eyes. Today, her cakes are the most sought after cakes in London! If you peek inside any classroom today, you will see a mirror of our diverse country, the variations in student-readiness, learning profiles, interests, abilities, attitudes, backgrounds and motivation. Teaching has become one of the most challenging jobs on earth! Ms. Sandhya Kulkarni, Associate Director, New Horizons Group (NHG) and Chairman, New Horizons Institute of Education and Research (NHI) Dr. Samir Dalwai, Founder Director, New Horizons Group and President, Indian Academy of Pediatrics - Mumbai Mr. Jimmy Garda, General Manager, New Horizons Group Dr. Anuradha Sovani, Professor and HOD – Psychology, SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai Dr. Sujata Sriram, Professor and Dean, The School of Human Ecology, TISS Dr. Leena Deshpande, Developmental Pediatrician Ms. Sohini Chatterjee, Clinical Director, New Horizons Group Puppet Show by ‘Magical Whispers’ Dr. Ameya Bondre, Research Co-ordinator, New Horizons Health and Research Foundation Ms. Areeba Khan, Genetic Counselor An Enthralled Audience Team New Horizons at the Conference Ms. Rajani Konantambigi, Professor, The School of Human Ecology, TISS From L-R, Ms. Tressy Renji (Special Educator & Parent), Ms. Deepti Kanade-Modak, (In-charge, New Horizons Health and Research Foundation), Dr. Kersi Chavda (MD-Psychiatrist), Ms. Minal Sule (Psychologist), Ms. Masarrat Khan (CEO, MDA), Dr. Yusuf Matcheswalla (MD-Psychiatrist) Mr. Amole Gupte, Film-maker Working at Goregaon English School Working with Parisar Asha at Nityanand Marg BMC School Learning is Fun!! On 18th March, 2017, New Horizons Education and Training Solutions (NHS) conducted a workshop on the beautiful campus of Bombay Teen Challenge Academy, at Baldapur. This school imparts education to disadvantaged and under-privileged children. It was a marvel to see the 18 odd teachers involved in the workshop, learning the Special Education method to teach children. Our special workshop addressed the needs of the school and helped them understand how they can transform their regular curriculum into a heterogeneous, culturally sensitive and child-centred curriculum. The teachers were challenged to provide quality education, and were often faced with a dilemma of teaching and completing a pre-set regular curriculum. The students came to them at different ages and with different sets of skills. There were also the challenges of social stigma, emotional conflicts and also being first generation learners. The workshop focused on the importance of skill development - skills to read, to write and to be independent learners. Teachers were guided to modify a curriculum, understand the essence of accommodations and its impact on learning, understand unique learning profiles, and to assess knowledge in an unorthodox way. The workshop guided the teachers to follow a path that allowed children to grow in an environment free from anxiety, discrimination and trepidation, and impart an education to prepare children for life. AUTISM AWARENESS: FROM LABEL TO ENABLE - BY MS. GITANJALI PILLAI Autism Spectrum Disorder is characterized by its unique social interactions, non-standard ways of learning, keen interests in specific subjects, inclination to routines, challenges in typical communications and particular ways of processing sensory information. The prevelance of Autism in all regions of the world is high and the lack of understanding has a tremendous impact on the individuals, their families and communities. The stigmatization and discrimination associated with Autism remain substantial obstacles to diagnosis and therapeutic intervention. The United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared 2nd April as World Autism Awareness Day to highlight the need to help improve the quality of life of those with Autism so they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society. Keeping in line with the New Horizons Spirit and to mark the occasion of World Autism Awareness Day, we were abuzz with activity and spreading awareness on print as well as social media! MY JOURNEY WITH NEW HORIZONS – BY MS. SUCHISMITA KADAM I joined New Horizons in June 2014 as a Clinical Psychologist. This was my very first job immediately after finishing my Masters. As an amateur I was far from knowing how to “behave professionally” and yes, it was indeed a struggle for me; yet each person I met was patient and supported me throughout my journey. As my training began I came across quite a lot of people who eventually became my colleagues and team-mates. During those training days I visited the Goregoan West centre a couple of times, which was still under construction. I remember the view vividly, the chairs and cupboards, the toys stacked up in one corner, the re-arrangements of the OPD room, etc. I did not know then that “this place” will eventually become my second home for the coming years! I will complete my (almost) 3 years’ journey with New Horizons in 2017. In these 3 years, my office and my colleagues have become a family to me. Ms. Suchismita Kadam Each one has shown immense patience and supported my silly doubts and mistakes. Professionally, it has been enriching as I got to have hands-on practical experience in clinical areas. It is not just learning about the concerns that a child shows or the testing and counseling but also the primary need of being sensitive to caregivers and actively listening to their side of the story. The Thursday clinical meetings, deadlines of submitting reports, counseling meetings held every 3-4 months and the Journal Clubs have regularly added to the knowledge and information which we gained from other clinical teams as well. I have enjoyed my tenure here and I appreciate having had the opportunity to work with each one of you. Thank you for the support, guidance, and encouragement you have provided me during my time at New Horizons. Though I will miss my colleagues and the organization, I am looking forward to a new phase in my life. I wish all the best to New Horizons always, with many more milestones to be achieved and I wish many, many more successes to the New Horizons Group! On the eve of World Autism Awareness Day, Mumbai Mirror published an article, titled “Spot the Early Signs of Autism”, where Dr. Samir Dalwai spoke on how ASD is often misdiagnosed as a problem with speech or diagnosed late. An exerpt: Dr. Samir Dalwai has been working with children with Autism for the last 15 years and has identified two behavioural patterns to watch for: The first is if the child is not using body language, or non-verbal communication, meaningfully by one year of age. The second is if the child does not speak any meaningful words by one and a half years of age. “Any action is not a communication. There must be meaning and purpose behind it,” Dalwai says. “If your child doesn’t have non-verbal communication at one year and verbal communication by one-and-a-half years, then you should suspect a social communication disorder. Along with this, if the child has repetitive meaningless behaviours and meaningless restricted interests, that is Autism.” For the Full Article, click on the link: http://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/others/heal th-lifestyle/spot-the-early-signs-of-autism/articles how/57947759.cms On World Autism Awareness Day, 2nd April 2017, the Times of India published an article titled, “Many People with Autism Lead a Successful Life”. The article talked of Dr. Samir Dalwai’s work with children with Autism and Myths and Facts based on studies conducted by New Horizons Health and Research Foundation (NHF). An Excerpt: MYTH: It is better to "wait and see" if a child does better rather than refer the child for diagnostic assessment and intervention. FACT: If children with signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder are identified early and provided intervention, then their developmental gains are more significant. Children (average age at evaluation: 3 years 3 months) in a study showed marked improvement in social skills, communication skills, reduction in extreme response to touch, smell and taste. For the Full Article, click on the link: http://toi.in/kB4eVY/a18ag Parents and children at all five centres of New Horizons Child Development Centre (NHD) made colourful hand-prints and wrote down messages to mark the day. It’s All About the Child! Training by HR on Core Values – Bhandup Centre Team-Building Activity by HR – Dadar Centre Training Meet for Education Department Happy Holi 2017! Dr. Atul Bhaskar, Senior Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon, at New Horizons Child Development Centre (NHD), Bhandup Training Meet for Centre Heads and Deputy Centre Heads (Right-Left) Dr. Randi Hagerman, Mr. Robert Miller, Dr. Flora Tassone and Ms. Ami Kothari at New Horizons Child Development Centre (NHD), Goregaon West New Horizons Team Members with Dr. Randi Hagerman at the CME on Intellectual Disability, Autism and Fragile-X Full House for the CME on Intellectual Disability, Autism and Fragile-X: Clinical Approach and Management Article in Mumbai Mirror Autism Awareness Message on Social Media Hand-in-Hand! Teacher-Learner Aids Made by Education Department Happy Holi 2017! Dr. Samir Dalwai (Founder Director, New Horizons Group and President, Indian Academy of Pediatrics, Mumbai), along with Ms. Sohini Chatterjee (Clinical Director, New Horizons Group), presented a survey of patients with Wilson Disease at the Annual Gastroenterology Conference - HEPATICON 2017, at Nehru Science Centre, Mumbai on 25th March, 2017. This survey was carried out on behalf of the Children's Liver Foundation, Indian Academy of Pediatrics, Mumbai and New Horizons Health and Research Foundation. The survey included 21 adult patients/ caregivers of patients who reported on signs and symptoms of Wilson Disease in early childhood, recalling past history. The results of the survey proved useful to the pediatricians who attended the conference, in order to make an informed diagnosis of Wilson Disease and focus on its developmental and behavioural manifestations. Dr. Abha Nagral, Paediatric Gastroenterologist at the Children's Liver Foundation, organized the conference and Dr. Kritika Malhotra helped in conducting the survey. Ms. Deepti-Kanade Modak, Dr. Ameya Bondre and our NHF interns (Ms. Mohita Munot and Ms. Rida Sheikh) facilitated the survey and analyzed the data.
Transcript of New Horizons GroupNew Horizons Group’s comprehensive inter-disciplinary program New Horizons...
New Horizons Group
NEWSLETTER (QPM/ MNL-01, Vol. III Issue 2) | March, 2017
Developmental PediatricianDr. Samir Dalwai (MD, DNB, DCH,FCPS, DNB and LLB) founded NewHorizons Child DevelopmentCentre (NHCDC now NHD) in2003. NHD has developed 5centres and currently houses ateam of more than 60paramedical professionals. NHDprovides multi-disciplinaryservices to more than 300children daily with a ratio of onespecialist to one child in eachintervention session.
New Horizons Health & ResearchFoundation (NHHRF now NHF), isa registered non-profitorganization[Reg.No.U85100MH2012NPL23856; No.DIT(E)/80G/111/N/2014-15],which works in the areas ofhealth, impairment and earlychildhood development. NHFfollows a four-pronged approach:Research, Rehabilitation,Advocacy and Training.
Established in 2014, NewHorizons Institute ofEducation & Research (NHIERnow NHI) is the educationalwing of NHG. In May, 2015,TATA INSTITUTE OF SOCIALSCIENCES (TISS), Mumbai andNHF entered a collaborationand offer diploma courses inSpecial Education andRehabilitation Psychology.
New Horizons Educationand Training Solutions(NHETS now NHS) provideshighly specialized solutionsto schools in Mumbai. Ourspecialists are deputed atthe school on a customizedbasis for conductingevaluation, intervention andcounseling for children withacademic, emotional andbehavioural concerns.
Dr. Waheeda Pagarkarstarted the New HorizonsAudiology (NHA) and HearingAid Centre for Adults andChildren in August 2014. In itsfirst year, NHA has seenaround 400 patients, out ofwhich 20 were adults and theremaining 380 were children.35 patients were diagnosedwith hearing loss of varyingtype and degree while 10 wereprescribed with hearing aids.
1. The team at University of California-Davis (UC-Davis), MIND institute, USA, which includes eminent developmental and behavioral pediatrician and the Medical Director of the MIND Institute at UC Davis, Dr. Randi Hagerman; Clinical Professor of Neurology in the Department of Neurology, California Northstate University College of Medicine, Dr. Flora Tassone; Former Executive Director of the National Fragile X Foundation, USA, Mr. Robert Miller and Secretary of the Fragile X Foundation of India, Ms. Ami Kothari visited New Horizons Child Development Centre (Goregaon West) on March 3, 2017. New Horizons Group’s comprehensive inter-disciplinary program New Horizons Developmental Program (NHDP) was discussed with the team from UC Davis, along with our research publications and the large volume of data on children with developmental disorders that NH has generated. We got several leads and guidance on conducting further research in Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) and advice on conducting the Special Fragile X OPD, medications for children with FXS and genetic testing of children.
2. A CME on “Intellectual Disability, Autism and Fragile X: Clinical Approach and Management” was organized by the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), Mumbai in association with IAP Chapter of Neurodevelopmental Pediatrics, Nanavati Super Speciality Hospital, Fragile X Society of India and New Horizons Health and Research Foundation. With great response from all over Mumbai, 200 participants attended this CME where faculty from UC Davis, Mind Institute of California spoke on the genetic, clinical, research, intervention and parent advocacy aspects of Fragile X, Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Speakers and participants included Dr. Randi Hagerman, Dr. Flora Tassone, Dr. Stephanie Sherman, Mr. Robert Miller, Dr. Anne Skomorowsky, Dr. Suma Shankar, Dr. Rashid Merchant, Dr. Samir Dalwai, Dr. Murlidhar Mahajan, Dr. Tushar Maniar, Dr. Ravindra Chittal, Dr. Pawan Sureka, Dr. Barkha Chawla, Ms. Shalini Kedia, Dr. Aditi Shah and Dr. Jagruti Sanghvi.
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4. National Consensus Guidelines for management of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Specific Learning Disorder (LD) drafted by Dr. Samir Dalwai and Team NHF in collaboration with senior Paediatricians at Indian Academy of Paediatrics, were submitted to Indian Paediatrics journal earlier this year. Guidelines for ASD, ADHD and SLD have been accepted for publication!!! No country in Asia so far, has drafted National Guidelines for these developmental disorders. It is critical to note that large numbers of children in India are affected by these disorders and framing national guidelines is the first big step, in order to standardize clinical practices in the country and influence future health policy.
5. Team NHF has completed coding the data for a total of (approx.) 2295 children who reported during 2013-2015. Data was reviewed from their psychological evaluation reports in order to map the diagnostic and clinical profiles and draft the largest epidemiology paper of NH on Developmental Disorders. We are in the process of drafting another paper on the progress of these children after intervention (n = 286 -> 2015 data). Currently, we are analyzing the data in order to draft these two papers. We are also analyzing the effect of predictors on response to intervention, in children with ASD.
6. Campus Recruitments were conducted at D.Y.Patil College of Physiotherapy, Chaitanya College of Physiotherapy, Pune and MAEERS College of Physiotherapy, Pune for recruitment of Developmental Specialists at New Horizons. The campus drive has successfully generated interest of 12 candidates who wish to work with New Horizons.
7. Dr.Samir Dalwai has embarked on a new service for children at NH by initiating the Fragile X and Dysmorphology OPD which was started on Tuesday 21st February 2017 where 3 children with Fragile X were evaluated and their detailed clinical evaluation and management program was discussed with the family. The 1st Tuesday of every month will be dedicated by Dr. Samir Dalwai and the team of NH Fellows in Developmental and
For exciting career opportunities with New Horizons Group, click here: http://www.enablemychild.org/new-horizons-group/nhg-careers/
Dr. Samir Dalwai (Left) in discussion with Dr. Randi Hagerman, Mr. Robert Miller, Dr.
Flora Tassone and Ms. Ami Kothari
UPDTATE FROM NEW HORIZONS HEALTH AND RESEARCH FOUNDATION (NHF): P VALUE OF WORK DONE IN MARCH 2017 WAS <0.05 (MEANING, SIGNIFICANT!!)
Dr. Samir Dalwai Speaking at HEPATICON 2017
Behavioural Pediatrics for this super-speciality OPD for children with dysmorphology and/or Fragile X and the 3rd Tuesday of every month will be dedicated for children with neuro-motor concerns. These super-speciality OPDs will help in the detailed clinical, neurological and genetic work-up needed for effective management of interventions and the required guidance for their families.
NHD - Dadar (East)
1st Floor, Jeevak Nursing Home, Sai Kunj, MMSG Marg, Dadar (East), Mumbai - 400 014.
Tel: 022 65287397 / 022 24144596 / 7506171230
NHD - Bhandup (West)
Pawar Public School, Opp. DreamsMall, Off LBS Marg, Bhandup (West),Mumbai - 400 078.
Tel: 022 21663024 / 9769669332
NHD and NHAGoregaon (West)
2nd Floor,Techniplex II, Techniplex Complex,Veer Savarkar Flyover, Goregaon (West),Mumbai - 400 062.
Tel: 022 60600650 / 7506171240
NHD - Goregaon (East)
Ground Floor, Saira Mansion,Pahadi School Road 2, Goregaon (East),Mumbai - 400 063.
Tel: 022 65711586
NHD - Santa Cruz (West)
Shop No. 47, 1st Floor, Hi-Life Mall, Opp. Santa Cruz Station, Santa Cruz (West), Mumbai - 400 054.
Tel: 022 26465649 / 9819224415
[email protected]/newhorizonscdc
New Horizons Group - www.enablemychild.org
LEARNING TO TEACH AND TEACHING TO LEARN – BY MS. DIKSHITA CHOUDHURY
A SALUTE TO TEACHERS – BY MS. LOPAMUDRA DUTTA
STOP PRESS!!
SNAPSHOTS!!
MY INTERNSHIP AT NEW HORIZONS – BY MS. RIDA SHEIKH
Psychology is the science of human behaviour and the things in the mind that create behaviour. It’s a subject that fascinates everyone because we all have different notions of what is “normal” and what is not. I have always been curious about human behaviour and the mind. Why humans do certain things and why humans do not do certain things. For example, it was never stated that while standing in the elevator we have to face the door, but everyone still does that, because it is thought to be “normal”. The reason that I have been so keen on pursuing Psychology as my career is, so that I could help people. Those people who for years have been given labels as “mad”, “abnormal’, “crazy”, and what not! But that is not true. Having a psychological disorder is not something bad and should not be looked down upon. Just like how normal diseases like fever or cold are treated, even psychological disorders can be treated. People need to stop being afraid to approach psychologists for help due to fear of what society thinks.
I have always been fascinated by the human mind but I started thinking of it as a career when I got the opportunity to have psychology as a subject in Podar International School while doing my A Levels. This is when I actually learned about a number of things. I have studied about schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, phobias and substance abuse disorder in detail.
My psychology teacher at Podar had recommended that I come and intern at New Horizons. I have now been interning with New Horizons Health and Research Foundation (NHF) for around 3 months. I have gained a tremendous amount of experience and knowledge at the age of only 17 years, under the mentorship of Dr. Samir Dalwai, Ms. Deepti Kanade-Modak, Dr. Ameya Bondre, Ms. Diksha Gajria and my fellow intern, Ms. Mohita Munot. I am very grateful to them for giving me the opportunity to do such valuable work and trusting me enough to let me help analyse NHD data by coding the psychology reports, analysing the data, and making graphical representations of the collected data. I have also been given the chance to observe OPD sessions and intervention sessions where I got to learn and observe cases of Autism, ADHD, Specific Learning Disorder, Intellectual Disability, Cerebral Palsy, Down’s Syndrome and children with behavioural concerns.
The knowledge I have gained over the past 3 months working with NHF is going to help me in making my professional vision a reality! Ms. Rida Sheikh
1ST ANNUAL CONFERENCE BY NEW HORIZONS INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION AND RESEARCH (NHI) IN COLLABORATION WITH THE SCHOOL OF HUMAN ECOLOGY, TATA INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES (TISS), MUMBAI: CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND
NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS: A RATIONAL APPROACH
A conference on ‘Child Development and Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Rational Approach’ was conducted by New Horizons Institute of Education and Research (NHI) in collaboration with The School of Human Ecology, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai, on 15th January, 2017 in Mumbai. This was the first Annual Conference conducted by NHI and The School of Human Ecology, TISS, Mumbai.
The conference saw an amalgamation of more than two hundred and thirty-two delegates with stalwart speakers from varied fields of Developmental Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Psychology and Special Education. The program was honoured by the presence of eminent film-maker and writer, Mr. Amole Gupte who has received many accolades for his work in films like Taare Zameen Par and Stanley Ka Dabba.
The conference was declared open by Mr. Jimmy Garda, General Manager, New Horizons Group after a very motivational welcome address where he spoke about the rationale and scope of the conference. He briefed the audience about the New Horizons Group and the collaboration of Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) with NHI, the importance of 'Label to Enable' and how we can refrain from merely labeling children. The conference was divided into four symposiums. Each symposium had a theme and a take-home message at the end of it.
As NHI's First Annual Conference in collaboration with TISS, supported by Team New Horizons, it has been a wonderful experience as the conference was well received and NHI looks forward towards it's next one!
New Horizons Institute of Education and Research (NHI) conducts a one year full-time ‘Post Graduate Diploma in Special Education’ course in collaboration with Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai. As part of the course, the current batch of students did their internship with sixty-six children from two schools in Mumbai. The authorities from the school identified children with academic and behavioural concerns. The students initially conducted academic assessments at both the schools and based upon the impressions, they conducted one-to-one interventions with the children.
The two schools which have been kind enough to allow successful interventions are - Goregaon English School, Goregaon East and Parisar Asha at Nityanand Marg BMC School, Andheri (E).
At Goregaon English School, the students worked with forty-four children from Junior K.G. to Grade VIII. The interventions were conducted thrice a week for four hours a day. At NityanandMarg BMC School, the students worked with twenty children from Junior K.G. and Senior K.G. The interventions were conducted twice a week on Tuesdays and Fridays for four hours per day. During the intervention, the students prepared teacher-learner aids, filled daily logsheets, and planned activities beneficial for the students. After the one-to-one interventions were completed, re-evaluations were conducted to document the progress in response to intervention.
The intervention program started on the 17th of November 2017 and was terminated on the 10th of March 2017. It was truly a fruitful experience for the students as they learnt a variety of skills during the intervention under the guidance of faculty members at NHI.
The essence of any school curriculum is ‘learning’, whereby knowledge, skills and habits are etched out in the minds of an individual through instruction, training, sharing, and communicating.
On reflection, the 80s and 90s era, education was effortless. We learned. We were educated and not to forget, there were many of us who would say that studying had never been our forte. Back then, curriculum involved learning in all aspects, formal and informal. There was time to study, to play, for hobbies, for interests, to read and to cram before exams!
I remember a girl from my neighbourhood: she was different. She never behaved like the rest of the girls of her age, nor did she have any inclination to study - she never sought appreciation from the teachers for her grades. During examinations, she would not attempt to write. Her feat - she would crack us up with her amazing narration of jokes. We were left to wonder at her amazing artistic mind- her portraits were WOW: a treat to the eyes. Today, her cakes are the most sought after cakes in London!
If you peek inside any classroom today, you will see a mirror of our diverse country, the variations in student-readiness, learning profiles, interests, abilities, attitudes, backgrounds and motivation. Teaching has become one of the most challenging jobs on earth!
Ms. Sandhya Kulkarni, Associate Director, New Horizons Group (NHG) and Chairman, New Horizons Institute of
Education and Research (NHI)
Dr. Samir Dalwai, Founder Director, New Horizons Group and President, Indian Academy of Pediatrics - Mumbai
Mr. Jimmy Garda, General Manager, New Horizons Group Dr. Anuradha Sovani, Professor and HOD – Psychology, SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai
Dr. Sujata Sriram, Professor and Dean, The School of Human Ecology, TISS
Dr. Leena Deshpande, Developmental Pediatrician
Ms. Sohini Chatterjee, Clinical Director, New Horizons Group Puppet Show by ‘Magical Whispers’
Dr. Ameya Bondre, Research Co-ordinator, New Horizons
Health and Research FoundationMs. Areeba Khan, Genetic Counselor
An Enthralled Audience Team New Horizons at the Conference
Ms. Rajani Konantambigi, Professor, The School of Human Ecology, TISS
From L-R, Ms. Tressy Renji (Special Educator & Parent), Ms. Deepti Kanade-Modak, (In-charge, New Horizons Health and Research Foundation), Dr. Kersi Chavda
(MD-Psychiatrist), Ms. Minal Sule (Psychologist), Ms. Masarrat Khan (CEO, MDA), Dr. Yusuf Matcheswalla (MD-Psychiatrist)
Mr. Amole Gupte, Film-maker
Working at Goregaon English School
Working with Parisar Asha at Nityanand Marg BMC School
Learning is Fun!!
On 18th March, 2017, New Horizons Education and Training Solutions (NHS) conducted a workshop on the beautiful campus of Bombay Teen Challenge Academy, at Baldapur. This school imparts education to disadvantaged and under-privileged children. It was a marvel to see the 18 odd teachers involved in the workshop, learning the Special Education method to teach children. Our special workshop addressed the needs of the school and helped them understand how they can transform their regular curriculum into a heterogeneous, culturally sensitive and child-centred curriculum.
The teachers were challenged to provide quality education, and were often faced with a dilemma of teaching and completing a pre-set regular curriculum. The students came to them at different ages and with different sets of skills. There were also the challenges of social stigma, emotional conflicts and also being first generation learners.
The workshop focused on the importance of skill development - skills to read, to write and to be independent learners. Teachers were guided to modify a curriculum, understand the essence of accommodations and its impact on learning, understand unique learning profiles, and to assess knowledge in an unorthodox way. The workshop guided the teachers to follow a path that allowed children to grow in an environment free from anxiety, discrimination and trepidation, and impart an education to prepare children for life.
AUTISM AWARENESS: FROM LABEL TO ENABLE - BY MS. GITANJALI PILLAI
Autism Spectrum Disorder is characterized by its unique social interactions, non-standard ways of learning, keen interests in specific subjects, inclination to routines, challenges in typical communications and particular ways of processing sensory information. The prevelance of Autism in all regions of the world is high and the lack of understanding has a tremendous impact on the individuals, their families and communities. The stigmatization and discrimination associated with Autism remain substantial obstacles to diagnosis and therapeutic intervention.
The United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared 2nd April as World Autism Awareness Day to highlight the need to help improve the quality of life of those with Autism so they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society.
Keeping in line with the New Horizons Spirit and to mark the occasion of World Autism Awareness Day, we were abuzz with activity and spreading awareness on print as well as social media!
MY JOURNEY WITH NEW HORIZONS – BY MS. SUCHISMITA KADAM
I joined New Horizons in June 2014 as a Clinical Psychologist. This was my very first job immediately after finishing my Masters. As an amateur I was far from knowing how to “behave professionally” and yes, it was indeed a struggle for me; yet each person I met was patient and supported me throughout my journey. As my training began I came across quite a lot of people who eventually became my colleagues and team-mates. During those training days I visited the Goregoan West centre a couple of times, which was still under construction. I remember the view vividly, the chairs and cupboards, the toys stacked up in one corner, the re-arrangements of the OPD room, etc. I did not know then that “this place” will eventually become my second home for the coming years!
I will complete my (almost) 3 years’ journey with New Horizons in 2017. In these 3 years, my office and my colleagues have become a family to me. Ms. Suchismita Kadam
Each one has shown immense patience and supported my silly doubts and mistakes. Professionally, it has been enriching as I got to have hands-on practical experience in clinical areas. It is not just learning about the concerns that a child shows or the testing and counseling but also the primary need of being sensitive to caregivers and actively listening to their side of the story. The Thursday clinical meetings, deadlines of submitting reports, counseling meetings held every 3-4 months and the Journal Clubs have regularly added to the knowledge and information which we gained from other clinical teams as well.
I have enjoyed my tenure here and I appreciate having had the opportunity to work with each one of you. Thank you for the support, guidance, and encouragement you have provided me during my time at New Horizons. Though I will miss my colleagues and the organization, I am looking forward to a new phase in my life. I wish all the best to New Horizons always, with many more milestones to be achieved and I wish many, many more successes to the New Horizons Group!
On the eve of World Autism Awareness Day, Mumbai Mirror published an article, titled “Spot the Early Signs of Autism”, where Dr. Samir Dalwai spoke on how ASD is often misdiagnosed as a problem with speech or diagnosed late. An exerpt: Dr. Samir Dalwai has been working with children with Autism for the last 15 years and has identified two behavioural patterns to watch for: The first is if the child is not using body language, or non-verbal communication, meaningfully by one year of age. The second is if the child does not speak any meaningful words by one and a half years of age.
“Any action is not a communication. There must be meaning and purpose behind it,” Dalwai says. “If your child doesn’t have non-verbal communication at one year and verbal communication by one-and-a-half years, then you should suspect a social communication disorder. Along with this, if the child has repetitive meaningless behaviours and meaningless restricted interests, that is Autism.”
For the Full Article, click on the link: http://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/others/health-lifestyle/spot-the-early-signs-of-autism/articleshow/57947759.cms
On World Autism Awareness Day, 2nd April 2017, the Times of India published an article titled, “Many People with Autism Lead a Successful Life”. The article talked of Dr. Samir Dalwai’s work with children with Autism and Myths and Facts based on studies conducted by New Horizons Health and Research Foundation (NHF). An Excerpt: MYTH: It is better to "wait and see" if a child does better rather than refer the child for diagnostic assessment and intervention.FACT: If children with signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder are identified early and provided intervention, then their developmental gains are more significant. Children (average age at evaluation: 3 years 3 months) in a study showed marked improvement in social skills, communication skills, reduction in extreme response to touch, smell and taste. For the Full Article, click on the link: http://toi.in/kB4eVY/a18ag
Parents and children at all five centres of New Horizons Child Development Centre (NHD) made colourful hand-prints and wrote down messages to mark the day.
It’s All About the Child!
Training by HR on Core Values – Bhandup Centre Team-Building Activity by HR – Dadar Centre
Training Meet for Education Department
Happy Holi 2017!
Dr. Atul Bhaskar, Senior Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon, at New Horizons Child Development Centre (NHD), Bhandup Training Meet for Centre Heads and Deputy Centre Heads
(Right-Left) Dr. Randi Hagerman, Mr. Robert Miller, Dr. Flora Tassone and Ms. Ami Kothari at New Horizons Child
Development Centre (NHD), Goregaon West
New Horizons Team Members with Dr. Randi Hagerman at the CME on Intellectual Disability, Autism and Fragile-X
Full House for the CME on Intellectual Disability, Autism and Fragile-X: Clinical Approach and Management
Article in Mumbai Mirror
Autism Awareness Message on Social Media
Hand-in-Hand!
Teacher-Learner Aids Made by Education Department
Happy Holi 2017!
Dr. Samir Dalwai (Founder Director, New Horizons Group and President, Indian Academy of Pediatrics, Mumbai), along with Ms. Sohini Chatterjee (Clinical Director, New Horizons Group), presented a survey of patients with Wilson Disease at the Annual Gastroenterology Conference - HEPATICON 2017, at Nehru Science Centre, Mumbai on 25th March, 2017. This survey was carried out on behalf of the Children's Liver Foundation, Indian Academy of Pediatrics, Mumbai and New Horizons Health and Research Foundation. The survey included 21 adult patients/ caregivers of patients who reported on signs and symptoms of Wilson Disease in early childhood, recalling past history. The results of the survey proved useful to the pediatricians who attended the conference, in order to make an informed diagnosis of Wilson Disease and focus on its developmental and behavioural manifestations. Dr. Abha Nagral, Paediatric Gastroenterologist at the Children's Liver Foundation, organized the conference and Dr. Kritika Malhotra helped in conducting the survey. Ms. Deepti-Kanade Modak, Dr. Ameya Bondre and our NHF interns (Ms. Mohita Munot and Ms. Rida Sheikh) facilitated the survey and analyzed the data.
