Bringing sunshine children into the light: Exploring a role for occupational therapy with a parent association in Kyrgyzstan

Abstract

People with Down Syndrome (DS) in Kyrgyzstan face social exclusion and occupational deprivation. Due to the widespread stigma of DS, cultural attitudes of mother-blaming, and a Soviet precedent of institutionalisation, many children with DS remain hidden at home. Currently, there are few educational opportunities for children with DS and even fewer employment opportunities for adults. Mothers of children with DS in Kyrgyzstan have self-mobilized to form a resource centre called Sunterra that promotes awareness about DS, provides support for parents, and pilots activity programmes for people with DS. Occupational therapy is not yet a recognised profession in Kyrgyzstan, but Sunterra has expressed interest in receiving specialist support from occupational therapists to promote the health and inclusion of people with DS through professional seminars and parent trainings on motor development, behaviour management, and life skills. By partnering with Sunterra, occupational therapists can promote social justice and inclusion for a marginalised group and raise awareness about occupational therapy in Kyrgyzstan.