Training & Research

Advancing inclusion through learning, evidence, and collaboration

The Nihal Veliyil Foundation is committed not only to direct therapy and family support, but to building knowledge that strengthens inclusion across Kerala and beyond. Through workshops, education programmes, and research partnerships, we aim to be a trusted voice in autism and developmental support.

From professional training for therapists and teachers to parent education sessions and community awareness, our Training & Research initiatives help families, educators, and institutions create a more compassionate, evidence-informed society.

Professional Workshops

Structured workshops for therapists, clinicians, and professionals working with children with autism and developmental challenges.

Spectrum Hearts brings together qualified professionals across seven therapy disciplines. Our professional workshops share best practices, multidisciplinary coordination, and family-centred approaches that strengthen care quality.

Workshops are designed for practising therapists, students, and allied health professionals who wish to deepen their skills in autism and developmental support.

  • Multidisciplinary therapy best practices
  • Case discussion and collaborative planning
  • Sensory, communication, and behaviour support strategies
  • Pro-bono and volunteer professional engagement

Parent Education Sessions

Interactive sessions helping parents understand therapy goals, daily strategies, and emotional wellbeing.

Parent education is central to our mission. When a child progresses, an entire family progresses — and parents deserve practical knowledge alongside emotional support.

Sessions cover understanding autism, home-based strategies, advocacy, and connecting with other families on similar journeys. Many families first encounter these sessions through Spectrum Hearts parent support workshops.

  • Therapy goal orientation for families
  • Practical home strategies from our multidisciplinary team
  • Peer connection and shared learning among parents
  • Links to the Parents' Resource Centre for ongoing guidance

Teacher Training

Equipping educators and school staff with inclusive practices for neurodiverse learners.

Teachers play a vital role in every child's development. Our teacher training programmes help educators understand autism, adapt classroom strategies, and create inclusive learning environments.

We engage schools, colleges, and special education institutions across Kerala to foster awareness and practical inclusion skills.

  • Autism awareness for mainstream and special educators
  • Classroom adaptation and sensory-friendly practices
  • Collaboration between schools and therapy centres
  • Partnerships with Gandhibhavan International Special School initiatives

Research Collaborations

Partnerships with institutions and researchers to advance evidence-based autism and developmental support.

Research is a cornerstone of our long-term vision. We aim to collaborate with universities, medical institutions, and research organisations to study effective therapies, family outcomes, and inclusive practices.

Spectrum Hearts' growing cohort of families and multidisciplinary data offers a foundation for meaningful, ethical research that benefits the autism community in India.

  • Evidence-based practice development
  • University and institutional partnerships
  • Ethical, family-centred research frameworks
  • Alignment with foundation vision for research initiatives

Publications

Handbooks, reports, and awareness materials sharing foundation knowledge with the wider community.

Publications extend our reach beyond the therapy centre — making practical guidance and awareness resources available to parents, professionals, and policymakers.

Downloadable materials will be added to this section as they are prepared. See the Publications section below for available and upcoming resources.

Browse available and upcoming publications in the Publications section below.

Conferences

Gatherings that bring together families, professionals, and community leaders to share knowledge and inspire action.

Conferences and awareness events create spaces for learning, dialogue, and celebration. From community awareness drives to dedicated autism inclusion conferences, we bring stakeholders together around a shared mission.

Upcoming and past events are listed in the Conferences section below. Partner with us to co-host or support future gatherings.

See upcoming and past events in the Conferences section below.

Publications

Download handbooks, workshop summaries, and awareness materials. New publications are added as they become available.

Autism Awareness Handbook

An introductory guide to understanding autism, inclusion, and community support — for families and educators.

Coming soon

Parent Workshop Summary

Key takeaways from Spectrum Hearts parent education sessions — practical strategies for home.

Coming soon

Inclusive Education Guide for Teachers

Classroom strategies and sensory-friendly practices for neurodiverse learners.

Coming soon

Conferences & Events

Gatherings that bring together families, professionals, and community leaders to share knowledge and inspire inclusion.

Upcoming Coming soon

Autism Awareness & Inclusion Conference

Kerala, India

A foundation-led conference bringing together families, therapists, educators, and community leaders to advance inclusion and evidence-based support.

Upcoming Ongoing programme

Parent Support Workshop — Navigating Autism Together

Spectrum Hearts

Interactive workshops for parents and caregivers on therapy, daily routines, advocacy, and emotional wellbeing.

Past Throughout the year

Community Awareness Programmes

Schools & communities across Kerala

Awareness drives engaging schools, colleges, and neighbourhoods to foster understanding of autism and developmental challenges.

Videos

Watch highlights from awareness programmes, workshops, and parent education sessions.

Interested in collaborating on training, research, or hosting an event? We welcome partnerships with institutions, professionals, and community organisations.