15/04/2025
The PCMC Section of Neurodevelopmental Pediatrics successfully commemorated Autism Consciousness Month through the launch of the Home Empowerment Series Year 2—a three-part lecture series designed for parents and guardians of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder—which began on March 29, 2025.
The opening session featured a heartfelt and insightful talk titled “KASAMA SA BAHAY…KASAMA SA BUHAY: Teaching Communication at Home” delivered by Ms. Maria Eusebia Sadicon, RSLP, a highly respected speech pathologist.
The event was spearheaded by Dr. Bernice Ho-Jao and was attended by the section’s consultants, including Dr. Christine Conducto, Dr. Ma. Florita Yambao-Dela Cruz, Dr. Annelyn Fatima Lopez, and Dr. Anna Dominique Aniag. Dr. Katerina Perez, a junior fellow, served as the host, while Dr. Doreen Mistica led the opening prayer. Additional support was provided by Dr. Janina Doroy, Dr. Angela Villaseñor, Dr. Rutchil Adajar, Dr. Erika Reyes-Abuel, and Dr. Patrisha Cordova, contributing to the success of the event. The workshop was attended by 21 participants—17 of whom were parents or guardians of patients seen at the Neurodevelopmental Pediatrics outpatient department. The workshop was also opened to patients from the Quezon City Kabahagi Center for Children with Disabilities, the local government’s initiative aimed at improving the lives of children with special needs, with 4 additional participants joining the session.
The recent workshop was truly high-yield and empowering for all participants. Teacher Mae delivered an insightful session on language milestones for children aged 1 to 5 years old. She emphasized the vital role of families as key partners in supporting a child’s development, reminding everyone that parents are not just observers—they are part of the team.
Through the Communication Index Profile, parents were guided to identify their child’s current, emerging, and absent language skills. This hands-on activity helped the pariticipants gain a deeper understanding of where their child is in their language journey.
Teacher Mae also highlighted the importance of setting realistic and child-centered goals—making sure expectations are supportive, not overwhelming.
In the final part of the session, the power of play as a tool for developing functional language took center stage. The participants got to apply what they learned through a fun and meaningful return demonstration, showing how play can be both engaging and educational.
It was a productive and heartwarming day of learning, connection, and empowerment for all!
