This session will focus on how we can protect our children from abuse and neglect, and build ecosystems where children’s safety is a priority. For this, we need the courage to commit to building spaces in the real and virtual world where they are safe, protected and secure so that they can do what they are wired to do – play, learn, be joyful and thrive.

Some children are rendered more vulnerable to mental health problems as they are seen as being different due to their wiring, sexuality, gender identity, looks, or family background. We need to challenge the discourse that places the blame on children and parents and instead understand the social roots of these problems. In this session, we will listen to and honour the stories of parents and young people who have struggled with mental health difficulties and build a “call to action” so that, together, we can be better and do better.

This session will be a panel discussion which will define a way forward in terms of intervention and inclusive practices, for families with children with learning disabilities, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), at home and in schools