Where others see problems, we see opportunities.
Where others see embarrassment, we see pride.
Where others see burden, we see love.
Because the most vulnerable children are our greatest priority.
In 2009 UNICEF continued to strengthen public awareness on the rights of children with disabilities.
We are used to call these children "different", with physical and/or intellectual disabilities, with mental and behavioural disorder or children with special needs. Children with disabilities and their families constantly experience barriers to the enjoyment of their basic human rights and to their inclusion in society. Yet, the barriers they face are more frequently a result of the environment they live in and the attitudes rather than a result of their impairment. Their abilities are overlooked, their capacities are underestimated and their needs are given low priority. A proper support to these children would provide them with the opportunity to reach their full potential and fully integrate into the society.
"The Invisible Children" campaign for children with disabilities took place from February to May 2009 and was aimed at changing attitudes towards the "invisible" and "different" children and raised funds for the development of the Playground for ability development.
In October 2009 "Playground for Ability Development" was opened in the city of Rousse as a new model for integrated health-social community based service in support to children with disabilities and their families.
The project "Playground for Ability Development" in Rousse provides psychological support and therapy to children with disabilities depending on their particular needs. The centre offers stay and care to children up to three hours a day. The real impact on children's lives is better inclusion and integration, improvement of their social abilities and development of their full potential.
"Playground for Ability Development" also provides support to families. Furthermore, there is a platform for exchange of experience and ideas among experts working in the child care system.
