Dear Fathers,
Never underestimate the importance you have in your child’s life. And although you may come across moments of stress, helplessness, fear and despair, you are not alone.
Dear Fathers, there are others who understand what it is like to raise a special needs child. We know how much planning it takes, figuring out how to start from ground zero. Some have given up careers as well to spend more time with their child, to provide stability at home through the formative years.
We are problem-solvers, anchors for our family, and leaders through uncertain times. We also look out for each other, and share what we know with fellow dads.
As we celebrate Fathers’ Day this month, let’s prioritise basic self-care, be kind to ourselves, and appreciate the efforts we have made to love and care for our families.
I would personally like to thank all the team members of CaringSG under the leadership of Dr Lim Hong Huay and Dr David Ang, PBM. You certainly have made a difference in our lives!
Happy Father’s Day.
– Djoni
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⛳ A Swing Towards New Experiences! ⛳
On 10 June, caregivers and their special needs dependents came together at Keppel Club for a morning of fun, focus, and first swings at CAREconnect: Parasport360 – Discover Golf!
On 20 June 2025, CaringSG held its June edition of the REAL TALK webinar series titled “You Are Not Alone,” a heartfelt and honest session for caregivers of children with special needs. Supported by SG Enable, the event created a compassionate space where real-life struggles were shared, emotions were validated, and hope was rekindled.
On 19 June 2025, CaringSG conducted our “How to Just Be There” training for 37 Mendaki staff, introducing the P.A.U.S.E.™ method — Prepare, Acknowledge, Understand, Sit with, Empathize — to equip participants with the mindset and tools to support individuals with special needs through presence, not pressure. Led by trainer Jansen Sng, the session was highly praised for its engaging approach, real-life relevance, and emotional impact.
Over six Sunday mornings, something special happened down at Changi Sailing Club. Through a joint effort between CaringSG and the Singapore Disability Sports Council (SDSC), caregivers and their special needs dependents came together to pick up a new skill—sailing—in a setting that was equal parts fun, inclusive, and empowering.
On 17 April 2025, CaringSG hosted a deeply meaningful Self-Care Workshop facilitated by Julia Chan—caregiver, certified mental wellness coach, and author of The Healing Journal: A Caregiver’s Path to Self-Care. With a nurturing approach shaped by her own lived experiences, Julia guided participants through practical tools to better care for themselves while supporting their loved ones.
A big part of the joy in caregiving for children comes from being made to see things from a fresh child-like perspective. Teaching autistic children requires one to go beyond that. Often, one has to tap on that perspective and the child’s interest to engage them in learning about our neurotypical world. This is the story of Eliz’s creative teaching journey inspired by her fostered child, Eugene.
