Disturbing Reality: Numerous Disabled Children Denied Education in France

In a sanctuary of nature near Nantes, the Oasis des Talents provides a haven for children with disabilities who have been excluded from the traditional education system. Founded by the mother of a neurologically impaired child, this center offers specialized workshops and therapy sessions, fostering socialization, intellectual stimulation, and much-needed respite for overwhelmed parents. However, the center highlights the ongoing challenges faced by children with disabilities in France, as thousands lack access to appropriate schooling and support.

Children with Disabilities Often Left Behind in France,

By Agence France-Presse

In the verdant countryside near the western French city of Nantes, lies an "oasis" for children with disabilities who have been excluded from traditional schooling.

The Oasis des Talents, founded by Tiphaine de Saint-Vincent, provides a sanctuary of tranquility amidst idyllic surroundings for these children, offering specialized educational workshops, sports activities, and therapeutic play sessions.

Saint-Vincent's journey began with her son, Malo, who suffers from a neurological disorder. After struggling in mainstream education, he was forced to leave school in the fifth year of kindergarten due to learning difficulties.

Despite being on waiting lists for specialized classes or an Institute for Medical Education (IME), Malo now attends the Oasis des Talents alongside around 15 other children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities.

"After kindergarten, these children are told, 'Go home, because there's no place for you here.' They understand that they are excluded," said Saint-Vincent, 36. "At this age, they need others or they regress."

Breaking Barriers through Play and Interaction

Delphine Maire, one of the companions at the Oasis, witnessed firsthand the transformation of Soumaya, a 7-year-old girl with severe autism. Initially, Soumaya would spend her therapy sessions sitting alone, always in the same corner, holding the same toy. Today, she ventures outside her comfort zone, explores, and interacts with others.

"At her own pace, she is taking risks," Maire explained.

A Staggering Number of Excluded Children

The situation faced by children like Malo and Soumaya is far from isolated. According to a study by Unapei, one of France's leading associations in the field of intellectual disability, thousands of children with disabilities are denied access to suitable education.

Of the 2,103 children included in the study, 23% received "no hours of schooling" per week, while 28% had between 0 and 6 hours, 22% between 6 and 12 hours, and only 27% benefited from more than 12 hours of weekly instruction.

Respite for Parents

Beyond providing educational opportunities, the Oasis des Talents also offers a lifeline for parents, who often face the dual challenges of caring for a child with disabilities and navigating a complex system.

Afef Letaief, mother of 13-year-old Hamza, who has severe Asperger's syndrome, drops him off at a secondary school each day for two hours of classes. However, the lack of adequate support staff has left him with no other educational opportunities.

"I devote myself to my son 100%," said Letaief, 41.

Former English teacher Saint-Vincent also gave up her career to dedicate herself full-time to her son and the Oasis des Talents, which receives no government funding and relies solely on private donations.

Government Shortcomings

While the French government has reported an increase in the number of children with disabilities admitted to school, Saint-Vincent and other organizations criticize the "deficiencies" in the system.

"Children need stability: workshops, friends, a park—it's essential," said Saint-Vincent.

A Call for Recognition and Support

Children with disabilities deserve to be recognized and supported as equal members of society. They should have access to the educational opportunities and social experiences that will allow them to reach their full potential.

The Oasis des Talents stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the transformative power of a caring and supportive environment. It should be a model for inclusive education and a reminder that all children are entitled to a fulfilling life.