Fernvale Minds School Reflections

The Executive Committee spent a Saturday afternoon at Fernvale Gardens School which is specially set up to help the Intellectually disabled.

Here are extracts of some reflections we have gathered.

The whole experience felt unique. I don't know how to describe it. Initially, I was rather apprehensive about handling intellectually disabled children. Was that fear? I just didn't know what to expect and felt not quite ready to handle them. But once the activities kicked off, I found myself enjoying their companion. I'd say the experience there was enriching, putting our patience to the test. It had been enjoyable to see them immersing themselves in the games, crafts and dance we planned for them. I liked the expression on their faces, the epitome of simplistic joy.

From this experience, I've come to see how we've taken for granted our intellect. They are less able than us to work and support ourselves. Yet, I want to believe that they could one day become able to be financially self-reliant. Yet, I want to believe that they too could be people useful to our society.

Irene

Though i couldn't exactly know what they were thinking at times, i'm sure the smiles on their faces were a good enough signals. Being a first timer at teaching dance, i was really afraid that i would not receive any response from them. Luckily, they joined in the dance actively and followed along. Seeing the smiles on their faces, i was really glad and touched! :D I had much fun interacting and playing with them! [: Overall, it was a very enriching and touching experience for me! :) I hope that everyone enjoyed themselves as much as i did! :D
Nicolette

Overall, i had a great and fun time there and learnt a lot of new stuff about people in MINDS that i can only get from being with them personally, not just from a book or even the internet. They are just like normal people like us and we should never look down on them or any of that sort. Instead, we should work hand in hand with them and the organisations who help educate them. This is so as to help them be integrated with society, as well as, be respected and accepted for who they are.
Tasha

We do not need people to sympathize with them. Instead, a greater favour would be to accept them for who they are and believe that they can actually perform as well as us with their own capabilities.
Pon

do visit their website to find out more about them, and if you're keen to volunteer at MINDS-Fernvale, feel free to approach ALIYA or JESSICA !