Emelie, a 43-year-old mother of five, had always been dedicated to her family. But when her niece Anna* (not her real name) was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), they faced a new challenge. With Anna’s mother recovering from childbirth and her father working overseas, they needed extra support.
In 2021, after a long conversation with her family, Emelie became Anna's primary caregiver. This decision allowed her to support Anna while also earning an income to help sustain her own family and care for her sister's newborn.
Anna was diagnosed at two years old after her mother noticed developmental differences. “She hated touching sand, riding tricycles, and even being in cars,” Emelie said.
Anna also struggled with social interactions, refusing to engage with others. Emelie remembers her becoming distressed during a hospital stay, saying, “She would bite me and pull my hair.”
Emelie found hope through Save the Children’s Project ABLE “Ready, Set, Learn,” a compilation of learning sessions filled with simple, home-based activities that help children and parents learn and engage together.
“The sessions showed me how Anna can learn through play and how to encourage her without pushing too hard,” Emelie said.
Now, Emelie accompanies Anna to school each day, supporting her as she learns and grows. While Anna is still adjusting, she is gradually building patience. “She tends to grab food from others, so we’re guiding her through structured routines."
The program also taught Emelie how to communicate effectively with Anna. Previously, she relied on smartphones to keep Anna occupied and prevent tantrums, but now, she spends more meaningful time with her—engaging in paper-cutting activities, simple beadwork, and interactive play.
Every night, Emelie reads Pitong Tsinelas (Seven Slippers), a child-friendly storybook from the Ready, Set, Learn play kit, to Anna. This strengthens their bond while nurturing her love for learning.
“I learned about patience and how to approach Anna in a way she understands,” Emelie said. Since participating, she feels more confident in helping Anna thrive. She noticed remarkable progress: Anna has become more curious, willing to try new things, and is interacting with others.
Emelie believes the project should continue, as it has brought hope and purpose to their lives. “More families like ours need this support to help children like Anna thrive.”