Little Hands, Big Dreams
Tekendra (Ayush) Khadka, from a low-income family in Dang, was referred to Muna Nepal by Bimala Khadka, mother of Preyansh. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Ayush presents with impairments in motor skills, sensory processing, and cognitive development. Upon arrival, he demonstrated good head control while seated on the floor but struggled with high sitting and posture. He exhibited sensory sensitivities in his feet, impacting his response to textures. His hand-eye coordination was weak, and his cognitive skills required development. Although he displayed a social smile and engaged in physical play, his speech was delayed, and he exhibited limited attention, often avoiding eye contact.
Ayush received targeted therapeutic interventions to address his developmental delays, including: Sensory activities to improve sensory processing, such as those involving colorful rice, water beads, bean bag beads, wool pom-poms, sand, and repurposed materials. Hand-eye coordination activities to enhance fine motor skills, including stacking blocks, spooning rice and beans, beading, and color matching. Sensory art activities, such as hand and foot printing, were implemented to improve sensory integration and motor coordination.
Following consistent therapy and home-based activities, Ayush demonstrated significant progress in several areas: Sensory processing improved, with enhanced awareness and response to textures, and increased hand function. Cognitive and attentional skills showed notable enhancement, with improved focus and engagement. Fine motor coordination increased, evident in his ability to grasp and manipulate objects with greater precision. Speech development progressed, with the articulation of simple words. Postural control and sitting tolerance improved, allowing him to sit unsupported for extended periods. Standing and mobility also showed marked advancement.
To support Ayush's continued progress, home-based recommendations were provided, including: Enhanced sensory activities focusing on his legs, feet, and face; continued hand-eye coordination exercises; targeted left-hand practice to improve bilateral coordination; and physiological exercises to promote independent standing and walking.
A follow-up assessment in March 2025 revealed remarkable progress in Ayush's development. Notably, his standing and postural control had significantly improved, a testament to his mother Tara's diligent efforts in continuing therapy and structured activities at home. The provision of a standing frame and table further supported his development. His hand-eye coordination had substantially improved, enabling him to perform complex fine motor tasks. Speech development progressed, with the articulation of simple words. His sitting tolerance also increased, demonstrating improved endurance and postural control. Ayush's overall progress since beginning therapy at Muna Nepal is exceptional, with significant gains in sensory responses, cognitive abilities, speech, and motor skills, indicating a promising trajectory toward greater independence.