Here is the story behind La La Shou Special Education Center, which was told by Ms. Zhang Tao:

I was so happy when my son was born. But when he was one-year-old, I realized that there was something different from the other children. He would not cry, he would not speak, and he seemed not to recognize me as his mom. When he was diagnosed as an autistic child, I became so distressed. I could not believe the fact, and would bring him too all kinds of different hospitals. I was trying every means, even praying to God. But nothing helped. He still could not relate the word “ma ma” to me. My heart aches to remember those days.

I was determined to have him cured. When he was three years old, I quit my job to take care of him. I told myself that I would educate him myself and by six-years-old, he would be able to go to school like any normal child. I left home with my little son and a big traveling bag. I went to many rehabilitation centers seeking help. However, six months later, I realized that I was so wrong and selfish. He will be like that in his whole life. I should respect him just the way he is.

I contacted several mothers I acquainted in the hospitals and we started to exchange ideas. I found out I am not the only mother who was distressed. We shared the stories of our own, crying together how unfortunate we were. Gradually, we began to support each other instead of telling the stories and complaining again and again. 

I worried what my son will do after I am gone. Pictures of him wondering about in the streets and being bullied by other children went through my mind. I would never leave him like that. So, together with several other mothers, we started the special education center using our own desks, chairs, toys, books, etc. at home. We read books, attending lectures related to special children education, design on our own the teaching method…. After six years of unimaginable difficult time, we become much more mature and experienced now. But still, there is great need of social awareness, acceptance, care, and support to the special needs children and their parents. We welcome volunteers to work in our center.

I want to thank my son, who taught me how to love, to respect a life. It is him who also helped find my profession which I will devote my whole life in.

Zang Tao
Executive Director and co-founder
La La Shou Special Education Center

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