By Karen Purdie | Project Leader
Thanks to the generosity of supporters like you, the IRODA Early Intervention Center has taken an important step forward in expanding high-quality services for young children with developmental needs. In October 2025, we proudly opened the new “Steps in Play and Communication” group, part of our broader Steps Together+ initiative.
Why This Program Matters
The earliest years of life are a critical window for learning. For children with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other developmental challenges, intentional interactions through play are the foundation for communication, social understanding, and emotional growth. Your partnerships enables us to support families to provide these opportunities and interactions in their child's early years.
How the Program Was Developed
Our team drew from internationally recognized early intervention models and completed specialized training in structured developmental play groups. Building on the successful approach we have implemented at IRODA since 2017, this new program allows us to reach more families with an evidence-based, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment.
What Children Gain
The play group offers young children a safe and joyful place to learn and grow. Through guided play, they begin to:
Empowering Families
Parents participate directly in the sessions, learning practical strategies they can use at home. This approach provides support beyond the playgroup sessions and ensures that families feel understood, informed, and empowered every step of the way.
A Successful Beginning
The first sessions have already brought much encouragement with parents sharing of increased engagement, improved joint attention, and meaningful early communication from their children. The excitement and commitment of families reaffirm the importance of expanding programs like this across Tajikistan.
Because of your contributions, more children now have a place where play becomes a bridge to communication, friendship, and new possibilities.
Thank you for making this work possible.
Project reports on GlobalGiving are posted directly to globalgiving.org by Project Leaders as they are completed, generally every 3-4 months. To protect the integrity of these documents, GlobalGiving does not alter them; therefore you may find some language or formatting issues.
If you donate to this project or have donated to this project, you can receive an email when this project posts a report. You can also subscribe for reports without donating.
Support this important cause by creating a personalized fundraising page.
Start a Fundraiser
