23
Jul
Empathy in Action: Field Visit to Smiling Children Special School by the Students of Population and Public Health Sciences
As part of the academic activities of the Department of Social Relations, on 7 & 9 July 2025 students of PHS 304 and PHS 305 went to a field visit to Smiling Children Special School, located in Aftabnagar, Dhaka. The school specializes in the education and therapeutic care of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions. The visit was guided by the course instructor, Dr. Marzia Zaman Sultana, Senior Lecturer, Department of Social Relations with the objective of linking classroom knowledge to real-world institutional practices. The purpose of this tour was to deepen students’ understanding of early intervention, inclusive education, behavioral observation, and the role of public health in disability care. During the visit, students observed a range of structured daily activities including welcoming sessions, hygiene routines, one-on-one therapy, breakfast support, assembly participation, educational table work, music therapy, physical movement exercises, and swimming sessions. Each of these activities was designed to support the children’s cognitive, emotional, and physical development. Therapies such as speech support, multisensory stimulation, pressure therapy, and motor exercises were carried out with careful adaptation to each child’s needs. The school’s environment is notably child-centered, sensory-sensitive, and emotionally secure-ensuring a supportive space for every child. Students also had the opportunity to interact with teachers, observe teaching techniques, and discuss therapeutic goals and progress monitoring strategies with the institution’s staff. The visit concluded with a joint discussion session led by the school Principal and faculty members focusing on institutional challenges, inclusive education policy, and collaborative care. Students learned that 63 children from this institution have successfully transitioned into mainstream educational systems, an inspiring reflection of the school's impact. Students also shared personal observations and key academic takeaways. They noted the critical importance of empathy, patience, and individualized care in special children education and how structured routines can positively shape behavior and learning outcomes. This field experience was an invaluable experience offering meaningful insights into the intersection of education, therapy, and public health. It reinforced the belief that with compassion, structure, and professional support, children with special needs can thrive and achieve their fullest potential.