A Parent’s Guide to Finding the Right Special Education School in Delhi

1. Choosing the right special education school in a city as vast and diverse as Delhi can feel overwhelming. But with the right approach and key considerations, parents can make an informed decision that supports their child's unique growth, learning, and future. Here’s a thoughtful guide to help you navigate this journey — spotlighting Ashish Foundation for the Differently Abled (AFDA) in Dwarka as a valuable option. 1. Clarify Your Child’s Needs Every child is unique. Begin by identifying: Type of support needed: Do they need help with speech, occupational therapy, sensory integration, or academic learning? Learning style and pace: Do they respond better to structured lessons, play-based activities, or therapeutic interventions? Long-term goals: Are you prioritizing independence, life skills, social inclusivity, or academic advancement? Knowing what your child needs most will guide you toward schools offering tailored programs and specialized therapies.

2. 2. Explore Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) A hallmark of quality special education is a personalized approach. Schools that craft and implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) effectively tailor their teaching to each student's strengths and areas of improvement. Many reputable institutions, such as Beautiful Shades in Dwarka, place IEPs at the core of their methodology. 3. Consider School Philosophy & Holistic Development For many parents, it’s important to choose schools that value the whole child — not just academics. The Ashish Centre under AFDA emphasizes a person-centered, holistic education for children aged 3– 18, nurturing each student's unique potential and societal role. AFDA’s vision embraces early intervention and aims to empower students and their families, offering support beyond academics — including mentorship for parents and training for professionals. 4. Evaluate Location & Accessibility Logistics matter. Ashish Foundation is located in Sector 19, Dwarka, West Delhi — convenient for families in Western Delhi. Additionally, accessibility features in government infrastructure are improving across the city, enhancing inclusion in public spaces and potentially benefitting school visits and commuting. 5. Check Facilities, Therapies, and Support Services Top-tier special education schools often offer: Therapeutic services: speech therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, counseling, etc. Inclusive campus: accessible buildings with ramps, adaptive tools, and smaller class sizes for focused attention. Support for families: counseling, training, and community outreach. AFDA, for instance, includes multiple programs like Ankur Vocational Centre and Customized Employment Programs (CEP), aimed at long-term growth for individuals with developmental disabilities. 6. Visit, Ask Questions, and Observe A visit can make all the difference. Consider questions such as: How are IEPs developed and reviewed? What is the student-to-specialist or teacher ratio? What teaching methods and therapies are used? How are progress and challenges communicated to parents? Parental blogs on navigating Delhi’s school landscape stress the value of direct engagement and checklists during school visits. 7. Look for Community & Parent Support

3. Finding a supportive community can be invaluable. AFDA engages with parents, providing mentorship and empowerment tools to help families support their loved ones with autism or developmental differences. 8. Compare With Other Good Options Delhi has a growing ecosystem of special education providers: Air Force Golden Jubilee Institute (AFGJI) — a CBSE-affiliated school in Subroto Park with a dedicated Special Education Wing open to civilians. Tamana (NGO) — established in 1984, offering multiple special education centers, teacher training, and research — recognized widely in disability sector and under government bodies. These institutions may vary in curriculum, scope, and structure, so consider which environment aligns best with your priorities. 9. Admission, Funding & Government Support Private institutions like AFDA and AFGJI have specific admissions processes. Inquire directly regarding eligibility, waitlists, and costs. Government schools under Delhi’s Inclusive Education Branch accommodate around 12,000 children with disabilities through need-based support and special education staff. Delhi’s broader commitment to inclusive education includes infrastructure improvements and resource investment. 10. Make an Informed, Heart-led Choice Ultimately, your choice should balance practical fit (location, services, cost) with emotional resonance — a school where your child feels seen, supported, and celebrated. Final Thoughts Finding the right school for your child is a journey of research, intuition, and hope. Institutions like Ashish Foundation (AFDA) in Dwarka offer compassionate, holistic education tailored to children with developmental disabilities and involve families in the process. Exploring other notable options such as AFGJI, Tamana, and government inclusive initiatives can help you build a full picture of what's available in Delhi.