Blog
2024, A Year in Review
As we reflect on the past year, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible strides and new connections Smile A While Foundation has made as we work towards transforming the lives of children and families across Jamaica. Thanks to your unwavering support and partnership, we have been able to deliver on our mission of…
Assistive Technology Off to Jamaica!
We are very excited to share that our Rifton Stander has been shipped to Jamaica, thanks to the generosity of Dennis Shipping! Dennis Shipping ships all over the Caribbean and some parts of Central America, with a diverse staff from almost every Caribbean Island. The company graciously waved shipping fees to get our Rifton to…
Smile A While Foundation Helping to Bridge the Gap to Understand and Support the Whole Child
At Smile A While, we believe every child with special needs in the Caribbean can have a bright future when given the support they need. As an organization, we know the importance in having consistent access to therapy services in order to improve quality of life. Currently, in Jamaica there are 10 occupational therapists…
Occupational Therapy in Jamaican Schools: Equal Access Laws
Access to quality education is a fundamental right for every child, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. In Jamaica, the push for inclusivity in schools has seen significant progress, particularly with the inclusion of Occupational Therapy (OT) services. These services are essential in helping children with various challenges—whether physical, cognitive, or sensory—thrive in the educational…
Smile A While Foundation Joins Global Giving Platform to Support Special Needs Youth in Jamaica
We are thrilled to announce that Smile A While Foundation is now on the Global Giving platform! This partnership opens a new chapter in our mission to enhance the quality of life for special needs youth in Jamaica. As we step onto this global stage, we invite you to join us in making a lasting…
Celebrating Special Needs Moms: A Tribute to Their Love, Dedication, and Strength
Motherhood is a journey filled with joy, challenges, and countless sacrifices. For mothers of children with special needs, this journey can be particularly demanding. From navigating complex medical systems to advocating for their children’s rights, special needs moms face unique struggles that often go unseen. As Mother’s Day approaches, it’s essential to shine a light…
ABCs of Occupational Therapy
April is Occupational Therapy Awareness Month April celebrates Occupational Therapy Month to honor our vital profession and the meaningful differences it makes in the lives of special needs children. Occupational Therapy (OT) is like a superhero for children with special needs, helping them accomplish everyday tasks they struggle with. By finding fun ways to accomplish…
In Dire Need for Support: Autism a Costly Diagnosis, Full of Hurdles for Jamaican Families
Jamaica’s lack of support for autism diagnoses leaves families, communities and children with a rough path moving forward Autism is a costly diagnosis for a child in Jamaica. A recent article by Lisa Hanna, a Member of Parliament for St Ann South Eastern, People’s National Party spokesperson on foreign affairs and foreign trade, and a…
Helping Children Integrate Primitive Reflexes
What are primitive reflexes? Primitive reflexes are the reflex actions that arise from the Central Nervous System (CNS). Primitive reflexes are typically present in childhood, but not present in healthy or neurological intact adults. Primitive reflexes are movement patterns that are involuntarily elicited in newborns to enhance chances of survival. During normal development, these reflexes…
Letter of Medical Necessity 101
There are many wonderful developments in our modern world that enhance the quality of life for special needs youth. Access to these tools can be a huge barrier for many children, which is of course the basis of our programming! Insurance can help many families access some of these enhancements, and many are unaware that…
