Visit to Indian Institute of Cerebral Palsy (IICP)

As part of our practicum experience, we visited the Indian Institute of Cerebral Palsy (IICP), located in Taratala, Kolkata 21st of April 2025. IICP is a pioneering institution dedicated to the education, rehabilitation, and overall development of children and young adults with cerebral palsy and associated disabilities. This visit offered valuable insight into the functioning of a well-structured, holistic support system for individuals with complex needs.

The school is equipped with barrier-free infrastructure, including ramps, wide corridors, and adaptive furniture, ensuring that mobility is not a limitation. Classrooms are designed to accommodate wheelchairs and are furnished with educational materials that include visual aids, tactile tools, and speech-assisted devices. Therapy rooms for physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy are an integral part of the facility. Each child has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), jointly developed by educators and therapists to suit their specific needs.

During our visit, we observed teachers and therapists working collaboratively. Activities were skill- based and included basic literacy, numeracy, self-help, communication, and sensory development. For children with severe disabilities, learning was functional and focused on building independence. Teachers demonstrated immense patience, and their interactions were filled with care and encouragement. Therapy sessions were conducted side by side with academic classes, reinforcing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach.

The visit helped us understand the critical role of teamwork in special education and the importance of adapting teaching methods to individual capabilities. The joy on the children's faces and their determination to learn despite physical limitations left a lasting impression. As B.Ed. trainees, we gained a deeper awareness of the sensitivity, innovation, and commitment required in special education settings like IICP.