Saint Louis University’s (SLU) Sunflower Pedagogical and Developmental Center (PDC) hosted its second Parenting Pathway Workshop on Saturday, 12 October 2024. Parents, teachers, and caregivers from around Baguio City came together to discuss the challenges and joys that are present when raising children with autism or Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Participants were able to share personal stories of their struggles and successes, offer ideas and support to other participants, and ask questions to the professionals that were involved. Leading the discussion was Mrs. Myra Marzan, an early childhood education professional who shared insightful stories about what she can and cannot control when she is teaching a child with special needs.
PDC Parenting Pathway participants also had the privilege of listening to Professor Marilyn Lorente-Balmeo PhD, as she gave a lecture on the signs, symptoms, and interventions for autism and ADHD. Professor Balmeo is an education and SPED professional and she is currently an early education professor at Saint Louis University, Baguio. She shared her knowledge and wisdom with these participants and gave them inspiration in knowing that children and adults with these conditions go on to lead happy, successful lives. The participants shared that they felt supported and validated during the session because “the other parents here understand what I’m going through, even if the outside world judges me or my child for being different.”
The PDC Parenting Pathway is built on empathy and advocacy which can be seen and felt in each session. SLU-Sunflower PDC’s initiative in administering similar events continues to strengthen its missionary commitment to fostering a better and more compassionate community. Their guided efforts in the workshop also align with SLU’s support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), primarily SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
SLU Sunflower PDC will be hosting its third and final Parenting Pathway Workshop for this year on 9 November 2024 from 3-5 pm at the PDC. If you or someone you know is interested in getting involved in a supportive and active advocacy, please join us in changing the stigma around people with special needs! (Article by Lauren O. Weber | Peace Corps Volunteer)
