This mighty edifice, on the right side of the road past the 700 Year stadium, has been much cause for speculation. So, we are here to tell you that it is the new Institute of Child Development and is designed in the shape of a grand piano. “It symbolises what we stand for,” says Dr. Samai Sirithongthaworn, the Director of Rajanagarindra Institute of Child Development (RCID), who came up with idea of the design, “the piano is a symbol of art, of music, of performance.”
This institute is unlike any other in the country, it was established in 1994 with the Ministry of Health, because at that time northern Thailand had the worse IQ levels in the country. He explains that this was mainly due to inadequate cognitive stimulation and then not coping well in school, as well as an iron and iodine deficiency. Since then, the average northern IQ has climbed the rankings. The centre is an amazing place, improving and educating the lives of many people in Thailand and other countries who otherwise would have little or no access to child development programmes.
The institute provides many treatments and services, aiding children and parents physically, cognitively, emotionally and socially, from the screening, diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders, occupational therapy and hydrotherapy to many more invaluable treatments. Thais and foreigners are all accepted and the institute is free of charge.
The institute welcomes volunteers and donations, which it relies on for much of their budget. If you or your child requires help then don’t hesitate to visit the centre.
196 Moo 10, Chiang Mai-Fang Roas, Tambon Mae Rim,, Chiang Mai 50180 Tel: 053 890 238-44. E-mail: ncdc@hotmail.com or visit at www.ricd.go.th
For a more detailed account please see: www.chiangmaicitynews.com/news.php?id=159