“Inclusive Solutions for Diverse Needs” Empowers Families Navigating Special Needs
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten — In a forward-thinking initiative to better support families of
children with special needs, the Honorable Minister of Public Health, Social Development
and Labor, Richinel S.J. Brug, has partnered with The Spectrum Support Box to launch a
dynamic four-week parent training series titled “Inclusive Solutions for Diverse Needs.”
Led by experienced facilitators Alisha Brookes and Lucien York, the series offers practical
tools, emotional guidance, and a supportive environment for parents of children with special
needs. Each weekly session is designed to equip families with strategies to better
understand and support their children, while also prioritizing their own emotional well-being.
Program Overview
Week 1: Understanding Special Needs and Emotional Regulation
Parents explored emotional development, learned to recognize dysregulation in children,
and were introduced to tools like feelings charts and mood meters.
Week 2: Effective Communication Techniques
Focused on improving tone, active listening, and clear instructions, this session included
role-playing and the creation of personalized visual aids.
Week 3: Practical Tools for Behavior Management
Participants learned to track behavior patterns, use positive reinforcement, and interact with
tools like social stories, calm-down kits, and visual timers.
Week 4: Support for Parent Well-being
The final week focused on caregiver stress, self-care strategies, and building support
systems. The series concluded with a celebration and certificate ceremony.
This impactful training series was attended by 21 parents of children aged 2 to 17,
alongside 6 dedicated teachers. Special recognition was extended to two fathers whose
active participation highlighted the importance of inclusive and engaged parenting.
Minister of PHSDL / Minister van VSA
Government Administration Building
Post Office Box 943, Philipsburg / Soualiga road 1, Sint Maarten
(T) +721-[Add general office number] – (E) minVSA@sintmaartengov.org
“This initiative highlights the critical need for clear, practical, and compassionate support
systems for families raising children with special needs,” said Minister Brug. “I commend all
participants and facilitators for creating a space of growth, learning, and community. This is
the kind of forward momentum we need.”
Each session was grounded in real-life challenges and offered step-by-step guidance that
parents could immediately apply in their homes. The Spectrum Support Box continues to be
a vital community resource offering inclusive, customized support for families, schools, and
care providers.