Time flies! Jun xi is already 25 years old. He had been emotionally stable, well-behaved and cooperative since he was a child. But now that he grown up, he has his own opinions on certain things and slight changes will make him uncomfortable and rebelling. Children's tantrum is already a headache for parents, and We, as parents, have no idea how to respond to children from time to time which puts a lot of pressure on us. During consultations with medical professionals, I was fortunate to be referred to psychologist. I received support and sharing from fellow parents when I complained in group counselling sessions. Furthermore, I participated in a seminar organized by IDEAL at the Chinese University of Hong Kong and had deeper understanding of the unique thoughts of adults with intellectual disabilities. I also learned some skills to deal with intellectually disabled children and realized the cause of frustration is that parents do not understand what children think. If we witness children growth and changes from another perspective, it would be a blessing for both parents and children.

Xi tong has been a member of IDEAL for several years. At first, we were not keen on participating in the activities, but the center staffs and parents were very friendly and often encouraged us to participate more often. During the covid pandemic, we were grateful that IDEAL still arranged online classes for us. Xi tong learned dancing and painting from teacher Ms. Bonnie. She is happy every time she joins these classes. IDEAL is like a big family that we can encourage and tolerate each other. We look forward to seeing you all at the next event!

It has been ten years since I joined IDEAL. In these ten years, I have met a group of enthusiastic parents, professional executive committee members and volunteers. In a difficult period, when we had shortage of staff, they worked tirelessly to share workloads of the center voluntarily. Their dedication is deeply touching. The longer I am with them, the more I am inspired! 

In the past few years, due to the covid pandemic, there were some rapid changes in IDEAL such as personnel. Activities were changed to online classes and meetings, and we all had to stay at home to avoid Covid. It was difficult time for both members and caregivers, but everyone ended up safe and sound fortunately. The staffs of IDEAL stayed at their positions and faced challenges one after another.

I still remember the time when my child first participated in singing class of IDEAL, his initial lack of cooperation gradually improved and he now could sing along and actively participate. At the end, he was able to take on the role of lead singer in performances. These obvious progress and achievement were the outcome of encouragements and opportunities provided by teachers and volunteers in the singing classes. Thank to IDEAL for giving us opportunity for our children to develop their own interests!

I wish you all good health and a happy life!

I have been a volunteer of IDEAL for more than five years! At first, members barely knew me but now they call me as Ms. Yang or Shirley like friends. Every time I participated in outdoor activities and classes with members, I feel very happy and fulfilled! We hope that our volunteers obtain more knowledge of communicational skills with members and offer assistance for them in their paths of growth.