Sindian Early Intervention Center

In 2001, Beit Issie Shapiro opened an Early Intervention Center, the first comprehensive therapeutic daycare service in Kalansua, an Israeli-Arab community.  The Center is a source of great pride to Beit Issie Shapiro, modeling the inter-communal cooperation and respect that Beit Issie Shapiro values and aspires to.

Director: Mrs. Raba Zmiro: rabaa1@barak.net.il

“The Sindian Early Intervention Center provides for Arab-speaking children. The medium of instruction is Arabic, making it easier for the children who have language and communication difficulties. An important principle is that our focus is not only on the child with special needs, but his family and the community he lives in. We actively encourage people in our community to become involved in our activities and to accept and befriend those with special needs." Raba Zmiro.

The Children
Children aged 1 to 6 with a wide range of developmental delays and disabilities.

Parents
We work with the parents of our children, as partners and include them as much as possible, in their child’s assessment and treatment. We also offer support to them and their families, including home visits, practical advice and guidance.

Professionals
Special educators, occupational, speech and physical therapists, aqua/hydrotherapists, creative therapists, social workers and alternative intervention therapists. To the fullest extend possible, professionals from the Arab population are employed. All the professional staff have received skills enrichment training at Beit Issie Shapiro.

Community Outreach
Every effort is made to bring the community into the Center, and to promote greater acceptance of children with special needs. The youth the region participate in a social education and leadership development programs and are encouraged to volunteer at the Center and at other facilities for people with special needs.

Training
The Center also serves as a student field-training facility.