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Seminar discusses autism spectrum disorder

Seminar discusses autism spectrum disorder

Observer29-04-2025

MAHADHA: The Department of Social Development in Al Buraimi Governorate organised a seminar on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) under the auspices of Shaikh Saif bin Abdullah al Maamari, Wali of Mahadha. The seminar aims to raise community awareness and familiarise professionals with the latest rehabilitation and support methods for people with disabilities.
Several specialists in disability care presented four working papers. The first paper, titled 'Services Provided by Al Wafa Rehabilitation Center for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder", was followed by 'Early Intervention for Speech and Language Delays in Children." The third paper addressed 'How to Interact with Children on the Autism Spectrum," while the fourth covered 'Sensory Challenges in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder." The event explored therapeutic, behavioural and educational aspects of ASD, highlighting available rehabilitation services, sports and recreational activities, and coordination mechanisms with the Ministry of Education to monitor inclusion cases.
A key focus was the importance of early intervention systems and their role in developing language skills, factors influencing language growth, and strategies for children with speech and language disorders. The event also outlined early indicators of autism spectrum disorder.
- ONA

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An Omani Novel That Delves Into the Depths of Human Anxiety
An Omani Novel That Delves Into the Depths of Human Anxiety

Observer

time04-06-2025

  • Observer

An Omani Novel That Delves Into the Depths of Human Anxiety

By Arwa al Hashimi In the quiet, sun-drenched villages of Oman, a pioneering voice emerges from the desert sands—Zahran Alqasmi, whose novel Al-Ru' (meaning 'The Shadow') is redefining contemporary Middle Eastern literature. Unlike conventional narratives rooted in political upheaval or cultural revival, Alqasmi's work plunges deep into the labyrinthine corridors of the human psyche, inviting readers into a landscape haunted less by external conflicts and more by the intangible fears that reside within us all. Al-Ru' is not a story told with shock or spectacle but a delicate exploration of fear as an enduring presence. At its heart is Mahjan, a modest school bus driver living in a remote Omani village, who, seeking solace and purpose, tends to his late mother's neglected farm. His act of reclamation begins innocuously—a simple scarecrow built to keep away pests. 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Oman launches programme to support for children with autism
Oman launches programme to support for children with autism

Muscat Daily

time03-06-2025

  • Muscat Daily

Oman launches programme to support for children with autism

Muscat – The Ministry of Social Development (MoSD), through the National Autism Centre, has launched a summer programme aimed at supporting children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by combining rehabilitation and recreational activities. The initiative, which began on Tuesday, provides a structured and supportive environment to help children develop essential life skills during the summer break. An official from the ministry told Muscat Daily that the programme is designed to enhance behavioural, social, academic and functional skills through practical experiences tailored to each child's individual needs. 'It ensures each child receives the maximum benefit based on their unique potential,' the official said. The programme supplements ongoing rehabilitation services provided throughout the year and places a strong emphasis on communication and language development. Individual and group sessions incorporate alternative communication methods and assistive technologies to help children express themselves more effectively. Improving social interaction is a key focus, with group activities encouraging cooperation and peer engagement. Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) strategies are employed to reinforce positive behaviour, while academic support is offered through reading, writing and arithmetic sessions. Sports and art activities are also included to aid the development of motor skills. The programme is being held in two phases at the National Autism Centre: The first from June 3 to 19, and the second from June 22 to July 3. Each day is divided into two sessions – 8:30am to 10:30am and 11:00am to 1:00pm – aligned with the children's energy levels and abilities. 'Through this programme, we aim to offer an integrated setting that supports children with autism during the summer. It thoughtfully blends rehabilitation, education and fun, boosting their self-confidence and enhancing core skills,' the official added. The sessions are supervised by a multidisciplinary team comprising behavioural therapists, speech and language specialists, and occupational therapists, ensuring a comprehensive approach that encourages active participation and sustained motivation.

Seminar discusses autism spectrum disorder
Seminar discusses autism spectrum disorder

Observer

time29-04-2025

  • Observer

Seminar discusses autism spectrum disorder

MAHADHA: The Department of Social Development in Al Buraimi Governorate organised a seminar on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) under the auspices of Shaikh Saif bin Abdullah al Maamari, Wali of Mahadha. The seminar aims to raise community awareness and familiarise professionals with the latest rehabilitation and support methods for people with disabilities. Several specialists in disability care presented four working papers. The first paper, titled 'Services Provided by Al Wafa Rehabilitation Center for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder", was followed by 'Early Intervention for Speech and Language Delays in Children." The third paper addressed 'How to Interact with Children on the Autism Spectrum," while the fourth covered 'Sensory Challenges in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder." The event explored therapeutic, behavioural and educational aspects of ASD, highlighting available rehabilitation services, sports and recreational activities, and coordination mechanisms with the Ministry of Education to monitor inclusion cases. A key focus was the importance of early intervention systems and their role in developing language skills, factors influencing language growth, and strategies for children with speech and language disorders. The event also outlined early indicators of autism spectrum disorder. - ONA

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