Savita Keer, 34, recalls the day in 2019 when a CBM India field representative visited her village of Keerpura, Madhya Pradesh, to discuss the Mothers’ Group initiative as part of the ‘Engage, Educate and Empower for Life: Inclusive Hamara Gaon’ project, and how mothers from the village wholeheartedly embraced the invitation and expressed their interest in participating.
Five years have passed, and today Savita stands as the proud leader of a 10-member Mothers’ Group in her area, meeting every two weeks for training sessions. She enthusiastically expresses, “What could be better than having a single platform where all women in the village gather to learn important parental care techniques? In our training, we cover nutritional requirements, recreational activities, and playful methods to encourage inquisitive learning for our children.”
Savita highlights the enriching experience of gathering with other mothers of children with disabilities in an open space or at the nearby temple hall, peacefully discussing the positive changes brought about by integrating what they learnt into their daily lives.
With books and thoughtful discussions, these mothers acquire basic knowledge about various types of disabilities, caregiving methods, and health and hygiene tips. They also explore creative techniques, like painting and sketching, to make learning more engaging for their children. Other activities such as thematic talks and slogan-writing sessions further enhance the Mothers’ Group initiative’s appeal.
Enrolling in the program has made a big difference in Savita and her child’s life.
Implementing the learning techniques has led to remarkable improvements in my child’s skills. Now, he memorizes and communicates better, even speaking a few words in English effortlessly.
Who knows what stories these mothers will share next time they gather under a banyan tree or a community hall’s shade? Perhaps it will be about their child learning a new word, mastering a new skill, or simply expressing themselves with joy. One thing is certain: our Mothers’ Groups, fueled by knowledge and a shared purpose, will continue to rewrite the narrative for their children and unfold the potential that lies within them.
