Inclusion and Joy Shine as Foundation Celebrates Children’s Day in Zaria

In a celebration of inclusion and community spirit, the Nurture Special Education Needs Foundation (NSENF) hosted a heartwarming Children’s Day Play Therapy Event on Saturday, May 31, at JPEC Chimel Academy in Zaria.

Bringing together children with neurological and psychosocial disabilities alongside their peers, the event transformed the school grounds into a lively oasis of joy, laughter, and emotional healing. 

Through carefully designed play therapy sessions, inclusive games, and community bonding activities, the day highlighted the transformative impact of empathy and shared experiences in shaping a more inclusive society.

The Shield had earlier reported that NSENF would be hosting a Children’s Day Play Therapy. 

Organizers described the event as not just a celebration, but a statement underscoring the importance of creating safe, supportive spaces where every child feels seen, valued, and empowered.

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The “I Am a Star” recognition ceremony lit up JPEC Chimel Academy with cheers and heartfelt applause as each participating child was honored for their individuality, strength, and resilience.

During the ceremony, every child received accolades that underscored not only their courage, but also the beauty of diversity in the human experience.

A standout moment came during a candid, expert-led dialogue with parents and caregivers, which delved into the challenges and triumphs of raising children with developmental differences. 

Attendees described it as an affirming and empowering conversation that reinforced the importance of empathy, education, and support within the caregiving community.

Despite facing challenges such as limited funding, overstimulation among children, and a last-minute change of venue, the event recorded strong attendance: 17 children with special needs, 5 neurotypical children, 13 parents and caregivers, and several professionals from the media, education, and humanitarian sectors.

The event was powered by an impressive team of volunteers, with support from key partners including the Centre for Girls Education (CGE), FAM Initiative, and Quatech Photography, among others. 

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Special recognition was given to Hajiya Habiba Mohammed of CGE and Jecinta Egbim of FAM Initiative for their donations and tireless coordination efforts.

Addressing attendees, NSENF Executive Director Aisha Ibrahim Ahmad reaffirmed the foundation’s long-term mission to champion inclusive growth for children with neurological and psychosocial disabilities. “This is more than a celebration; it is a movement for empathy, awareness, and sustained support for our children,” Ahmad declared.

Though the event was modest in scale, its impact was anything but. Through shared laughter, therapeutic play, and critical conversations, the day left a lasting imprint on participants.