2025 International Inclusion Institute

The My Abilities First (MAF) project, initiated in 2016, emphasizes empowering children and their families through self-expression and the use of positive language in children's services. In 2020, Taiwan joined this global MAF project by introducing My Abilities ID Cards (ABID) for children under 12 years old with special needs and placing these ABIDs on the first page of children's individual profiles to encourage practitioners to focus on children's strengths rather than their weaknesses. Additionally, Taiwan has expanded this transformative approach by incorporating ABID into physiotherapy education, highlighting the importance of a strength-based approach for children with special needs. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a discussion about challenges and solutions as well as lessons learned across differing contexts.

There are three subtitles to introduce the global promotion of My Abilities First project and Taiwanese development and strategies to facilitate application of My Abilities ID Cards. Three subtitles are: 1. Schiariti Veronica- My Abilities First: Global Promotion of Children's Right to Self-Expression. 2. Liao HF- Promoting My Abilities First: Launching My Abilities ID Card Demonstration Sites in Taiwan 3.Wang PJ- Facilitating Positive Language in HealthcareEducation in Taiwan: My Abilities ID Cards

This session brings to life the perspectives of young musicians with differing abilities and their families participating in Sinfonía por el Perú, a nationally recognized social music program. By centering beneficiary and parent voices, this presentation highlights real experiences, expectations, and the essential role of family engagement in fostering truly inclusive music education.


Key Takeaways:

• Youth Voices in Inclusion: Insights from interviews with young musicians with various abilities on their perceptions and expectations toward inclusion. 
• The Power of Family Engagement: Introduction of the Parent Package, a practical resource designed to empower families as active partners in their child's musical and social development.
• Building Supportive, Inclusive Environments: Practical strategies for educators, administrators, and community leaders to strengthen inclusion within music programs, ensuring meaningful and sustainable participation for all.

This presentation will offer both pilot-tested insights and practical approaches, equipping participants with ideas to foster a culture of inclusion in their communities.