Parent Support Group

This program, led by Pediatrician Dr. Ayesha Shah, aims to support the parents of neurodivergent children, providing them with a safe space to discuss the challenges associated with raising neurodivergent children as well providing resources to them.

The support group will be held monthly at MIC. 

Location: Memphis Islamic Center (directions)

Hear from the Parents!

  • “My daughter so far is the oldest (27 years old) in the group, but she is like a child. Most of the social gatherings we go people seem awkward and don’t know how to interact with her. She doesn’t have any friend in our Muslim community. First time in her life we had a peer visit was from her SABR peer to our house. She bought a gift and spent some time playing with her. Although I was there in the room with them as an intermediary, I think both of them enjoyed the visit. It takes my daughter to do something on a regular basis to get use to new people and setting. The peer was very patient and understanding. My daughter has eight doctors and lots of surgeries and labs done throughout her life, so she gets apprehensive in new settings and meeting new people. Before SABR most special need gatherings she got invited were for Hallowing or Christmas parties. I desperately wanted her to able to go to an Eid gathering and have people to interact with. People who are comfortable with her. Also this program provides support for parents to talk and seek advice or help. Regardless of our abilities we all need to feel that we belong to our community.”

    Parent of Neurodivergent Peer

  • "Our son Abdelrahim is 6.5yrs old. SABR came to our lives at the right time. From the first meeting I felt accepted, supported, and encouraged. The meetings are always a place where I feel safe to express myself and feel vulnerable. The program is very encouraging as it gives us hope, resources, and tools to help our children. The peers are always treating the children like their own little brother or sister. May Allah reward them. They are very gentle with Abdelrahim, and this helps him socialize more. The best part is that our children can be themselves, safe, and feel included. We love SABR, especially Dr Ayesha and Dr Zakaria. May Allah reward them abundantly."

    Parent of Neurodivergent Peer

  • “I’m happy to be one of the first parents who started with SABR, or one of the pioneers like Dr. Ayesha calls us. The peer buddy program was one of the first ideas that Dr. Ayesha had for our special need parent group. I’m so happy with the experience I had with the program so far. The peers were extremely nice, patient, and helpful in every way. Spending time with the peers during the events was a great chance to learn and interact for both of my daughters, not only for my special needs one. I only wish if we can do more of these events to help my special need daughter to improve her interactive play skills.”

    Parent of Neurodivergent Peer