It was a moment of joy, hope, and inclusion on Children’s Day as the FOS Autism Foundation hosted a remarkable outreach programme for children with special needs and their families in Ikorodu, Lagos State.
The event, which took place on Tuesday at Pistis Hub 1, Oba Sekumade Road, Ipakodo, attracted a massive turnout of parents, caregivers, medical experts, and children from different parts of Ikorodu.
The Children’s Day celebration, described by many attendees as the first of its kind in Ikorodu, featured free medical screenings and consultations for children with autism and other developmental conditions. Specialists including behavioural analysts, speech therapists, psychologists, and other autism experts were on ground to attend to every child present at the event.
According to organisers, the programme was aimed at supporting parents of special needs children, and ensuring that children living with developmental disorders receive adequate care and attention for free.
Speaking during the event, the Founder of FOS Autism Foundation, Mrs. Osesuzi Bolodeoku, said the initiative was borne out of her passion for supporting children with special needs and helping parents better understand autism and developmental challenges.
She explained that many parents often struggle due to lack of support, and access to professional care, adding that the foundation remains committed to bridging that gap through advocacy and community outreach programmes.
Furthermore, parents and caregivers at the event were educated on proper ways to care for children with autism and other special needs. They were taught practical parenting techniques, behavioural management strategies, and informed about things parents should avoid while raising children with developmental conditions.
Mrs. Bolodeoku emphasized the importance of patience, love, and early intervention in managing autism spectrum disorders, noting that parents must never neglect or isolate special needs children.
Clinical Psychologist and Director, FOS Autism Foundation, Mr. Ben Sama in his brief remarks at the event noted that the outreach won’t be a one-off, promising that the foundation would still do more for children living with neuro-developmental challenges in Ikorodu Division.
The event was not only educational but also entertaining for the children, who enjoyed several recreational activities specially arranged for them. The venue came alive with laughter and excitement as children played freely on bouncing castles and with different toys provided by the organisers.
In addition, refreshments including popcorn, ice cream, party jollof rice, snacks, and several gift items were distributed to the children and their parents, making the celebration colourful and memorable.
Some parents who spoke with journalists expressed deep appreciation to the FOS Autism Foundation for organising such a life-changing event and medical consultation for free.
One of the parents described the programme as a blessing, saying many families with special needs children rarely receive this level of attention and support in society.
Another parent commended Mrs. Bolodeoku for her dedication and compassion, stating that the free access to medical professionals and therapists provided great relief to many struggling families.
Moreover, attendees noted that the outreach helped reduce the stigma often associated with autism and developmental disorders, while also creating a sense of belonging among parents and children.
The successful Children’s Day programme has continued to generate positive reactions within the Ikorodu community, with many residents calling for more awareness campaigns and support initiatives for children with special needs.
As the event came to an end, parents, volunteers, and medical experts praised the FOS Autism Foundation for putting together what many described as an impactful and unforgettable Children’s Day celebration dedicated to inclusion, care, and hope for every child.
