Children, parents treated at A.B.L.E. event

Scores of Barbadians turned out at Kensington Oval for the “Everyone is A.B.L.E.” event, focused on inclusion, support, and fun for children with disabilities.

Hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Pride of Barbados, the initiative brought together children of varying abilities to participate in a range of activities designed to promote unity and understanding.

Paediatric physiotherapist Dr Rhea Clarke said the event created a space where children could interact freely, regardless of their challenges.

“Here we have a wide range of conditions and disabilities, including Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy… we also have the vision-impaired and the hearing-impaired as well,” she said. “The idea is that the children with and without disabilities can come together… and basically learn to live as one.”

In addition to catering to the children, organisers placed special emphasis on supporting parents, acknowledging the demands they often face.

Kiwanis representative Nicola Yarde explained that a wellness component was introduced to give parents a chance to relax. Each parent received a massage along with “some other little surprises” throughout the day.

“We’ve been doing this event for a few years, but this year we’ve added another touch… something special for the parents of the children with disabilities because we recognise that it’s very challenging for them,” she said. “So we have a booth set up… where they’re going to get mini massages, just to help them unwind.”

Yarde also highlighted the growing popularity of the event, pointing to strong community support and increasing participation each year.

“The response has been great… Every year we have more and more children. When they hear it’s coming up, they’re messaging, calling, asking when… It’s very heartwarming,” she said, adding that the excitement expressed by parents underscores the event’s impact. (SB)