The EASPD Member Forum on Early Childhood Intervention (ECI), in mid-October visited AMIMONI, a Greek organisation that supports children and adults with visual impairments and additional disabilities. AMIMONI shared examples of lives of people with disabilities that they impacted with their work. The ECI Member Forum learnt more about the purpose of the day care centre that aims to provide training on everyday skills to their clients.

The participants got an opportunity to walk through many rooms of the organisation’s day care facility. From crafts to multi-sensory rooms to playgrounds, everything was accessible and tailored to the needs of people who use these facilities daily.

With all the details and care put into making the new AMIMONI day care centre, the group discussed similarities and differences that they see in their own countries. Together, the member forum continued to discuss the big challenge of transitioning from centre-based ECI services to home and community based services. Currently, there is a lack of awareness of the new family-centred ECI model. This model focusses on a collaborative approach that puts the family at the heart of ECI services.

It is important to continue discussing the family-centred ECI model to increase its outreach.