At Giggles and Mess, every child has room to belong

In Subang Jaya, three co-founders of Giggles and Mess, a playgroup uniting neurodivergent and neurotypical children, aim to foster understanding and friendship between these two groups. The founders, Sueveena Shalni, Kaminee Mahalingam, and Nuha Damanhoori Hilal, believe that placing children together in a safe, judgment-free environment will help them learn from one another and develop essential social skills.

Each session, held once a month on Saturdays, lasts one and a half to two hours and includes various activities such as storytelling, arts and crafts, and sensory play. The trio emphasizes the importance of avoiding labels and treating all children equally, allowing them to interact freely without separating them based on neurodivergence or neurotypicality.

The playgroup's activities target skills such as following instructions, communication, problem-solving, and adaptability. While the group welcomes children aged three to nine, they also cater to older neurodivergent children who may benefit from the sessions.

The playgroup's recent outings have included themed activities such as "Winter Wonderland" and "Walking in the Jungle," with children enjoying imaginative play, textured house-building, and exploring colorful sensory beads. These activities help children develop essential life skills while fostering a sense of belonging within the group.

The founders envision a future where Giggles and Mess becomes a permanent fixture in the Klang Valley, providing a regular outlet for children to learn about inclusion and empathy. Over time, they hope to see children grow more comfortable in the group, embracing the challenges of going with the flow and becoming more adaptable individuals within the broader community.