Raising and educating a child with autism in Kenya can be challenging, especially when looking for schools that offer specialized support and tailored learning experiences. Autism, a neurodevelopmental condition, affects communication, social skills, and behavior in ways that require specialized approaches to education. In Kenya, several schools and centers have established programs specifically for children with autism, combining structured educational activities with therapies such as speech, occupational, and sensory integration therapies.
To help you find the right option, here’s a comprehensive list of some of the best schools in Kenya for children with autism. These schools provide an array of services to cater to the unique needs of these children, helping them thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
1. Autism School International
Location: Ngoingwa, Kiambu County
Contact: 0721 282 123
Autism School International is a well-established institution that specializes in autism and other learning disabilities. They use evidence-based practices, like Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), which has been shown to help children with autism develop communication and social skills.
2. St Gerald’s Centre for Children with Autism
Location: Tigoni, Next to Nazareth Hospital
Contact: 0706 350 180
St Gerald’s Centre offers both day and boarding options, making it ideal for parents from different regions. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and provides therapies such as speech and occupational therapy. The school’s environment is structured to support sensory-sensitive children, a common characteristic among children with autism.
3. Bridgewood School
Location: Westlands, Nairobi
Contact: +254 020 352 0433
Bridgewood School was founded in 2004 and focuses on children aged 2 to 6. Early intervention is critical for children with autism, and Bridgewood School’s programs emphasize structured play, language, and motor skills development. The school provides a low student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring each child receives the attention they need.
4. Port Reitz Special School
Location: Old Port Reitz Road, Mombasa
Contact: 0728 294 578, 0734 522 421
Email: portreitz@gmail.com
Port Reitz Special School is a government-funded institution offering various programs for children with autism and other developmental disabilities. In addition to primary education, the school provides vocational training to prepare students for independent living and employment in adulthood.
5. Kenya Community Centre for Learning
Location: Behind Thika Road Mall, Roysambu
Contact: 0721 324 894
This center is dedicated to children between the ages of 6 and 21 who face a range of learning challenges, including autism. With its diverse academic and vocational curriculum, Kenya Community Centre for Learning focuses on developing both cognitive and life skills, allowing students to gain independence as they grow.
6. Joytown Special School
Location: Thika Town, Kiambu County
Contacts: +254 20 2403260/1/2
Run by the Salvation Army, Joytown Special School has earned a reputation as one of the country’s oldest and most respected special-needs schools. The school serves children with various disabilities, including autism, offering programs to support both academic growth and social development.
7. Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE)
Location: Kasarani, Nairobi
Contact: 0724 269 5050
KISE is one of Kenya’s leading institutions for special needs training. They provide assessments and programs for children with autism, cerebral palsy, and sensory impairments. KISE also offers parent training workshops and professional development courses for teachers, making it a key resource for families across the country.
8. Angels on Earth Special Needs Centre
Location: Nyali, Mombasa
Contact: 0739 885 387
Located in the coastal region, Angels on Earth Special Needs Centre offers specialized care and training for children with autism and cerebral palsy. The school’s comprehensive approach includes both academic and life skills training, with a strong focus on individualized education.
9. Sapling Trust Centre
Location: Nyali, Mombasa
Contact: 0720 898 962
Sapling Trust Centre, a non-profit organization, is known for its holistic approach to special education. Their offerings include occupational therapy, speech therapy, sensory integration therapy, and hydrotherapy, making it one of the most comprehensive autism centers in the region. This range of services helps ensure that children’s physical and sensory needs are met, alongside academic support.
10. Jacaranda Special School
Location: Kilimani, Nairobi
Jacaranda Special School is a public primary school that provides affordable options for children with special needs. The school offers various specialized classes and programs for children with autism, cerebral palsy, and other conditions, focusing on creating an inclusive environment where children can thrive academically and socially.
Supporting Autism Awareness in Kenya
While there are limited options compared to global standards, Kenya’s autism awareness and support systems are growing steadily, thanks in part to organizations like the Autism Society of Kenya and the Kenya Autism Alliance. These organizations work to advocate for children with autism and provide resources to families and schools, supporting ongoing advancements in autism care and education in Kenya.
Choosing the Right School for Your Child
Selecting the right school for a child with autism is an important decision. Beyond looking at academic programs, parents should consider the therapies offered, student-to-teacher ratios, and the school’s experience with special needs. Schools like KISE, for instance, not only offer direct education but also assist with assessments, providing a broad support network for parents and teachers alike.
With the growing awareness and development of specialized education, Kenyan children with autism now have greater access to supportive, structured educational environments that cater to their unique learning and developmental needs.
