Ready Steady GO.

Ready Steady GO.

About READY STEADY GO Project (RSG).

Overview

The READY STEADY GO Project (RSG) is a transformative initiative designed to support the early development of children with disabilities in Early Childhood Education (ECE) in Kenya. Implemented by Action Network for the Disabled (ANDY) in partnership with Able Child Africa and funded by Comic Relief, this project aims to improve access to quality ECE for 300 children with disabilities. The project is currently active in 10 schools across Nairobi County, specifically in the Kasarani and Dagoretti sub-counties.

Mission

Our mission is to use inclusive play as an entry point to identify and include children with disabilities in early education. By fostering an environment of inclusivity and support, we aim to ensure that all children, regardless of their abilities, have the opportunity to receive quality education and thrive.

Key Activities and Achievements

Teacher Training

We have trained over 40 teachers from 10 public primary schools on disability rights, inclusive teaching methodologies, and the development of Individualised Educational Plans (IEPs). As a result, more than 150 out-of-school children with disabilities have been successfully enrolled in public primary schools, creating a more aware and supportive school community.

Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR) Stakeholders Forum

The project established a multi-sectoral structure bringing together government officials, civil society organisations, community leaders, school boards, caregivers, social development officers, and children services departments. This forum aims to strengthen community support systems for early identification and intervention services. Key achievements include:

  • Drafting and submitting an MOU to the National Parliament highlighting gaps in inclusive education access.

  • Strengthening referral pathways for services and opportunities.

  • Enhancing advocacy skills and increasing disability awareness and inclusion in the community.

  • Securing increased bursary funds for children with disabilities at the constituency level.

  • Fostering partnerships among key stakeholders.

    Distribution of Assistive Devices

    Over 200 children with disabilities from Dagoretti, Kasarani, and Kibra have received assistive devices such as diapers, wheelchairs, walking frames, stands, and hearing aids. These devices help children access school and participate in extracurricular activities, promoting their overall well-being and integration.

    Formation of Parent Support Groups

    The project has facilitated the formation of seven Parent Support Groups (PSGs) in Dagoretti and Kasarani areas. These groups provide a support system for caregivers of children with disabilities, promoting economic empowerment through income-generating activities like table banking and group projects. Achievements include:

    • Training over 250 caregivers in home-based care, entrepreneurship, bookkeeping, group management, and leadership skills.

    • Enabling 27 caregivers to start their own businesses.

    • Increasing support for children with disabilities at the family level through heightened disability awareness.

    • Improving advocacy skills and establishing flourishing group businesses.

  • Child Rights Clubs and Inclusive Play Activities

    Weekly child rights clubs and inclusive play activities in 10 public primary schools have fostered integration between children with and without disabilities, reducing stigma and discrimination. These activities have:

    • Increased integration and inclusive friendships among learners.

    • Created young disability champions in schools and communities, further reducing stigma.

    • Improved learning outcomes for children with disabilities through peer-to-peer learning.

  • Our Commitment

    The READY STEADY GO Project is committed to creating a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for children with disabilities. By addressing the unique challenges faced by these children, we strive to provide them with the opportunities and resources needed to succeed academically and socially.

    Join us in our mission to support the early development of children with disabilities in Kenya. Together, we can create a brighter, more inclusive future for all children.

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