EN: Navigating Children’s Neurodiversity in Morocco: A Guide for Expatriate Families

In the vibrant life and culture of Morocco, expatriate families find themselves facing unique challenges, especially those with children who have neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), or Dyslexia. These conditions, which involve variations in brain development, affect a child's behavior, communication, learning, and interaction in ways that are profoundly misunderstood in many societies, including Morocco.

Understanding Neurodiversity in Pediatrics

Neurodiversity encompasses conditions like ASD, ADHD, and dyslexia, along with associated challenges in sleep, learning, language development, motor skills, mood fluctuations, anxiety, compulsive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities. The symptoms and their intensity can vary from one child to another and may change over different developmental stages. These neurodevelopmental disorders impact social interaction, both verbal and non-verbal communication, emotion and behavior regulation, and self-management.

Families of neurodiverse children often require a holistic assessment and individualized support and treatments, which can be a heavy burden, primarily resting on the family's shoulders. In some countries, this burden is alleviated by societal support through financial aid and specialized education services including special educators, therapists, and tailored classes.

The Challenge in Morocco

For expatriate families in Morocco, as in many developing countries, such societal support is scarce, particularly for those who have recently moved. Therapeutic services are limited and predominantly offered in French, posing a significant barrier for non-French speaking families. Moreover, finding a school that accepts children with special needs and is equipped to support them adequately is a daunting task. The education system, mainly conducted in French or Arabic, with some English and Spanish schools, often lacks the infrastructure to accommodate neurodiverse students, including the provision of necessary school aids like classroom assistants. The cost of these essential services generally falls outside the school fees, which can range significantly, making it an additional financial burden on the families.

The Path Forward

Collaborative care involving the family, pediatricians, therapists, and schools is crucial for the well-being and development of a child with neurodevelopmental disorders. As pediatricians, our role extends beyond diagnosis; we also provide the necessary medical certifications required for accessing financial benefits and advocate for a comprehensive approach to care.

In Morocco, the approach and beliefs of French-speaking healthcare providers towards neurodiverse children can differ markedly from those in English-speaking countries. This cultural and linguistic gap underscores the need for a more inclusive and understanding healthcare and educational system for expatriate families.

Dr. Salla’s Realistic Approach

At Dr. Salla's Office, we understand these challenges firsthand. Navigating the landscape of neurodiversity in children requires a team effort, and while I am dedicated to being a part of this team, I must clarify the realistic challenges we face together in Morocco. The scarcity of competent therapists and the lack of collaboration among existing resources mean that the journey to finding adequate support for neurodiverse children can be challenging.

Despite these obstacles, my role goes beyond diagnosing neurodevelopmental disorders. I am committed to looking at the overall picture of each child’s health and well-being. Recognizing the limitations within our current system, I assure you that I will do everything within my power to help your family navigate these challenges. This includes making accurate diagnoses, providing the necessary medical documentation for accessing financial benefits, and advising on the best possible steps to take in securing the assistance your child needs.

Our Commitment

In my commitment to enhancing the support and care for neurodiverse children in Morocco, I work closely with Dr. Allal Semmane, a dedicated professional who bridges the efforts between Moroccan authorities and Belgian politicians to improve the lives of both local and expatriate children with neurological challenges in Morocco. This collaboration signifies our proactive stance in advocating for policy changes and the implementation of more inclusive practices within the Moroccan healthcare, social and educational systems.

We are committed to a Moroccan society where every child receives the understanding and care they deserve. I provide consultations online throughout Morocco and in-person at our Rabat clinic, ensuring every family has access to the support and expertise necessary for navigating this journey.