Today, most days actually, I am wearing my Brain Garden Trust hat and feeling the weight of the harmful decisions this government is making.
One group that continues to face significant barriers are our neurodivergent tamariki. Many whānau are experiencing the harsh reality that this government's promises lack substance, and are in fact going in the opposite direction causing significant and irreversible harm to our vulnerable communities. This in turn causes stress in homes, and the difficult cycle continues, without much hope in sight. I wanted to share my thoughts around some of the challenges our community is facing and call for a more comprehensive approach. Who holds the responsibility to ensure that every child in Aotearoa receives the support they deserve?
Insufficient Resourcing
One of the most pressing issues is the lack of adequate funding and resources.
Schools, NGO’s and charities struggle to provide the necessary support. This is things like trained, trauma informed staff, accessible facilities, or tailored learning programmes. As a result, tamariki with special needs often themselves in overcrowded classrooms with limited individualised attention. Not conducive to success, often then finding themselves absent from school completely or for extended periods.
Inconsistent Access to Services
Lack of funding leads on to limited or inconsistent access to essential services.
These include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and counselling. While some regions may have well-established programs, these are often full. Others still are left with minimal support. Whānau frequently have to navigate a complex and unfriendly system to secure help. This is both time-consuming and emotionally draining.
A One-Size-Fits-All Approach
New Zealand education is still determined to fit a one sized fits all approach, despite the diverse needs of our tamariki.
This is detrimental for any child in a minority population. Needs are not being adequately met in a general classroom setting. Tailored learning plans are essential, yet they are not consistently provided, leaving many children to fall behind. This is often blamed on teachers who are battling with large class sizes filled with diverse needs. We need to stop looking to treat the symptom and go right back to the root cause.
Impact on whānau
The reality is, challenges faced by tamariki with special needs also take a toll on their whānau.
This is very difficult, actually impossible to understand unless you have lived it. Parents often find themselves in a constant battle for resources and support, leading to increased stress and frustration. Many families report feeling isolated, as they struggle to navigate a system that seems indifferent to their needs.
Additionally, the lack of adequate support can impact a child’s emotional and social development. Tamariki with special needs require more than just academic assistance; they need a supportive environment where they can thrive socially and emotionally. This links back to our Te Whare Tapa Whā model. Looking at ourselves as a whole with social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs all requiring equal attention and investment. Without this, the risk of isolation and mental health issues increases significantly.
If I could dream big here is what I would do…
Increase Funding: A significant boost in funding for special education is essential. Schools need resources to hire specialized staff and provide tailored learning environments.
Enhance Accessibility: Ensuring that all children have access to essential services is crucial. This includes expanding available therapies and making sure they are evenly distributed across the country.
Individualized Education Plans: Schools should be supported and resourced to create and implement individualized education plans for all children with special needs, not expected to do this on top of an already unrealistic workload. This would allow for a more tailored approach that addresses each child’s unique requirements.
Whānau Support Programs: Establishing programs that provide support and resources for families can help ease the burden they face. This includes wellbeing services, support groups, and information resources.
Awareness and Training: Increasing awareness and training for educators and school staff on the diverse needs of children with special needs is essential. This will foster a more inclusive school culture where every child is understood and supported.
Final thoughts…
Every child in Aotearoa deserves the opportunity to thrive.
While there are some frameworks in place to work towards a more inclusive education system, the reality is significant gaps and under-resourcing continue to disadvantage tamariki with special needs.
While I can’t change the world, even though I want to, I can keep investing into our charity, The Brain Garden Trust in the hopes that our resources and services can positively impact the whānau and tamariki we are able to reach. Funding is scarce. Time and energy are scarce. But this won’t stop us pushing forward and doing what we can with what we have. If you have made it this far perhaps you want to jump on board? We have a give a little or I would love to have a kōrero around where your skills and expertise may be best used. Nau mai, haere mai.
Together, we can advocate for the changes necessary to support our vulnerable whānau and build a brighter future for all.
Arohanui,
Emma Kate
