Special educational needs (SEN) has become a sector that requires significant attention. According to the latest research by the Legislative Council, there are over 50 thousands children in Hong Kong diagnosed with different degrees of developmental disorder or special needs. There may not be a cure for the disorders, yet early intervention and timely support not only can nurture children for success and happiness, but also relieve parenting pressure and tension within the family.

YWCA has run “Y Flight: Family-centered Support for Children with Special Educational Needs” for several years. Recruitment for 2021, which targets at grassroots families with SEN children in Yuen Long, Tin Shui Wai and Sham Shui Po, is now underway. Families in need are welcome to apply. The deadline for registration is 5 June.

Y Flight employs family-centred four-tier intervention model, which includes parenting skills training, therapeutic and developmental activities for children, social networking for families and public education. The goals are to boost the life and learning adaptability of SEN children, enhance parents' parenting ability, improve parent-child relationship, and strengthen the support network for the families when they need help.

Families with K3 to lower primary children suspected or diagnosed with SEN, including dyslexia, autism (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) etc., are eligible to apply. After interview, the most suitable and needy families will be invited to take part in the one-year professional parent-child training. Others can also join our seasonal training programme. To reduce the financial burden of grassroots families, discounts will be provided for families currently receiving CSSA, the School Textbook Assistance, Working Family Allowance or Community Care Fund.

For enquiries or registration, please visit Y Flight's Facebook page, or contact our Integrated Social Service Centre in Tin Shui Wai (2447 9228) or Sham Shui Po (2720 4318).