KINGSTON, Jamaica – An initiative aimed at empowering children with developmental disabilities and strengthening the support systems around them has officially launched in Jamaica.

Camp S.A.B.A, a sensory-based camp and training initiative, opened its inaugural session on Monday at Carberry Court Special School in St Andrew. Running from August 18–20, the camp is designed to provide children, parents, caregivers, and educators with practical tools rooted in evidence-based therapies.

S.A.B.A, which stands for Speech and ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis), brings together two of the most effective approaches to supporting developmental challenges.

The camp will combine speech therapy focused on enhancing communication and language skills with ABA therapy, which encourages positive behaviours and learning.

The programme is the brainchild of a founding team that includes Jamaican-born special education teacher and entrepreneur Kayan Rhodes, along with Allison Shear and Justina Fischetti, both licensed board certified behavior analysts with more than 20 years’ experience, and Julianna Mullane, a licensed speech pathologist with over a decade in the field.

Rhodes explained that the camp was created out of the urgent need for more training, resources, and therapeutic support for families and professionals in the Caribbean.

“Our goal is to not only support children but to strengthen the skills and resources of those who work with them daily,” she said. “We want every participant to leave with practical tools they can apply immediately.”

Over the three-day programme, participants will take part in hands-on sensory-based play therapy, interactive workshops, and professional training sessions.

Organisers say the camp’s vision is to bridge gaps in services and improve long-term outcomes for children with developmental disabilities across the region.