Special Needs Children: Experts Advocate for Inclusive Support Systems

 
 
Mary Nnah
 
 
A gathering of experts, parents, and caregivers at the SENTE 2026 Conference and Trade Fair has highlighted the pressing need for inclusive support systems for children with special needs as they navigate the complex issues of puberty and relationships. The conference, themed “Preparing for Adulthood: For Parents and Caregivers of Children with Special Needs”, recently brought together stakeholders in Lagos to discuss practical strategies for supporting children with special needs.
 
In a powerful address, Mrs. Mudi Nwachukwu, Founder of Rhimamory and Convener of the event, emphasised the need for a shift in how society approaches children with special needs. “Adults, for our children, may not look identical to that of their peers – and that is fine. Success is not defined by comparison. It is defined by growth, dignity, purpose, and quality of life,” she said, urging parents and caregivers to focus on empowering their children rather than comparing them to others.
 
A panel discussion on “Puberty and Relationships” brought together experts, including Yeside Olayinka-Agboola, a reproductive and sexual health educator; Gabriel Aigbokhaode, an advocate for inclusive play-based learning; Tobiloba Ajayi, Chief Responsibility Officer of The Let Cerebral Palsy Kids Learn Foundation, and Dotun Akande, Founder and Director of Patrick Speech and Languages Centre.
 
Yeside Olayinka-Agboola stressed the importance of educating children with special needs about their bodies, using specific and anatomically correct language. “It’s important for you to address it head-on. Start talking about the changes that they’re seeing and the changes that you can anticipate,” she said, citing the example of a 7- to 10-year-old girl who started exhibiting physical changes, highlighting the need for early education. Olayinka-Agboola emphasized the need for parents and caregivers to be proactive in addressing puberty and relationships, rather than waiting for their children to ask questions.
 
Gabriel Aigbokhaode emphasised the role of play in building relationships and bonds, saying, “70% of communication should be with your emotions, your posture, tone of language. How does that play a major role in engaging the children?” He highlighted the importance of adapting play to meet the unique needs of children with special needs, and encouraged parents and caregivers to prioritize play-based learning.
 
Tobiloba Ajayi shared her personal experience of navigating puberty with cerebral palsy, highlighting the need for caregivers to understand their child’s unique needs and abilities. “The conversation needs to shift a little when you’re having that conversation with a neurodivergent 10-year-old,” she said, emphasising the importance of tailoring education to meet individual needs.
 
The panelists stressed the importance of protecting children with special needs from exploitation and abuse, while also promoting independence and autonomy. “We need to address the parental mindset about our children. A lot of parents sanction our kids by saying because silence is consent,” Yeside Olayinka-Agboola said, emphasising the need for education and awareness. 
 
Dotun Akande emphasised the importance of communication in building relationships and bonds, saying, “Communication is a critical part of this. So the children, for you to be able to engage with them, you must be able to come into their space.”
 
The conference highlighted the need for inclusive support systems for children with special needs, and the importance of collaboration among families, educators, policymakers, and service providers. As Dr. Ayodele Renner, moderator of the panel, said, “We need to build a community that continues long after this event ends.” 
The SENTE 2026 Conference and Trade Fair served as a call to action for stakeholders to work together to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for children with special needs.