Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Health Reporter
FAMILIES are increasingly struggling to care for children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and intellectual disability, prompting health experts to call for early diagnosis and improved access to specialist services.
In an interview, occupational therapist, Mr Clyde Dube, said while the conditions are not new, greater awareness and improved recognition has resulted in more children being identified, exposing gaps in diagnosis, treatment and long-term support, particularly in rural communities.
He said many cases in Manicaland remain undiagnosed because specialist services are concentrated in major towns, forcing families from districts such as Chipinge, Chimanimani, Nyanga and Buhera to travel long distances for assessment and therapy.
“One of the biggest challenges facing caregivers in Manicaland is limited access to specialist services, particularly outside major urban centres. Many families travel long distances seeking assessment and therapy, while others simply cannot afford repeated visits. At the same time, cultural beliefs and stigma surrounding disability discourage some parents from seeking professional help early, leading to delayed diagnosis and intervention when the child’s developing brain is most responsive to therapy,” said Mr Dube, adding that shortage of occupational and speech therapists, psychologists and paediatric specialists see many children missing opportunities for early intervention, which is critical to improving developmental outcomes.
Mr Dube said neurodevelopmental disorders affect how a child’s brain develops, influencing communication, learning, behaviour, movement and social interaction.
“Neurodevelopmental conditions have become an increasing health burden for many families because caring for these children is not a short-term responsibility. It is a continuous journey that demands coordinated medical care, educational support and strong family involvement.
“The earlier these conditions are recognised and managed, the greater the opportunity for children to develop important life skills and improve their independence,” he said.
Global estimates show ADHD affects about 3,4 percent of children and adolescents under 18, while autism prevalence varies by country depending on diagnostic methods and health services.
Mr Dube said Zimbabwe’s burden is likely higher than reported because many children remain undiagnosed due to limited diagnostic infrastructure.
He said although autism, ADHD and intellectual disability sometimes occur together, they are distinct conditions requiring different treatment approaches.
“Caregivers should first understand the child’s specific diagnosis rather than relying on assumptions or community opinions. A proper diagnosis helps families make informed decisions and work effectively with healthcare professionals instead of relying on myths or misinformation,” said Mr Dube, adding that parents should establish structured daily routines, as predictability helps children develop skills, manage behaviour and reduce anxiety.
He cautioned caregivers against adopting therapeutic techniques seen on social media or from other parents without professional guidance.
“Some parents hear about sensory tools such as weighted vests or deep-pressure techniques and immediately begin using them at home. These interventions should only be introduced after assessment and guidance from an occupational therapist because every child’s sensory needs are different. What works for one child may not be appropriate or safe for another,” he said, adding that successful management depended on a multidisciplinary approach involving occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists, paediatricians, teachers and caregivers working towards common developmental goals.
“Children make the greatest progress when therapy continues beyond the clinic. Skills introduced during therapy sessions should be reinforced consistently at home through simple activities recommended by therapists. When parents actively participate in therapy, children are more likely to transfer those skills into their everyday lives and achieve meaningful developmental progress,” he said, encouraging families to seek support from schools, disability support groups, Government programmes and community organisations, where specialist services were unavailable.
Mr Dube also urged caregivers to prioritise their own mental wellbeing, saying burnout could undermine the consistency of care children require.
He urged parents who notice delays in speech, learning, communication, movement or social interaction to seek professional assessment early, rather than assuming the child would eventually outgrow the symptoms.
