Local commissions for orientation of children with special educational needs in Montenegro learn how to work with children with autismPODGORICA, MARCH 14-16, 2013 – More than 60 professionals from the local commissions for orientation of children with special educational needs in Montenegro completed training on assessing and identifying children with autism in order to refer them to the formal educational system in accordance with the specific needs of the child. The main topics of the training were related to the various signs of autism in children, early detection and assessment of the capacity of children with autism, as well as models of schooling of children with autism. “In this seminar, a completely different approach towards children with autism was presented. We were introduced to the causes of autism and methodology in communication with these children, as well as how to better respond to their needs,” said Nejra Mekic, psychologist at the elementary school “Dusan Korac” in Bijelo Polje. Autism is a developmental disability that manifests itself during the first three years of life and that has a tremendous impact on children, their families, and societies. Children with autistic conditions often lack adequate support and have limited access to services such as schools and health care. Early treatment during toddler and preschool years can reduce its effects and improve a child’s development.
“Participants asked a lot of questions during the training, especially regarding the most efficient models of educational work with the children with autism. They acquired new knowledge, and will be able to use this knowledge and share information with other experts and parents of these children in order to identify the best way of education of children with autism,” said Nenad Glumbic, professor at the Faculty for Special Education and Rehabilitation in Belgrade. According to the Ministry of Education, 18 local commissions have been formed for inclusion of the children with special educational needs into the educational system. Commissions determine the program, the additional expertise, personnel, space and other conditions that have to be provided. With the support from UNICEF, members of Commissions have been trained, working instruments have been made, and work manual has been printed.
UNICEF will continue to support Government of Montenegro to build the system that will provide quality education to all children and enable them to realize their potential.
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