This page explores the intersection of education and psychology in responding to the needs of children facing unique learning challenges. We focus on children with learning disabilities, children from migrant communities, whose educational journeys are often disrupted by instability, and the impact of Covid-19 on teaching and learning in Salesian schools across Mumbai, revealing both the psychological toll on students and the creative responses of educators to maintain connection and continuity. Through research, case studies, and field experience, we advocate for compassionate, evidence-based interventions that affirm the dignity and potential of every child.
BOOKS
This action-based research, conducted between February and May 2025, explores the academic and behavioural impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and other external influences on students across seven Salesian schools in Mumbai. The study involved 56 in-depth interviews and 21 focus group discussions with over 250 students, parents, teachers, and school administrators.This study offers valuable insights for educators, parents, and policymakers to support holistic student development in a post-pandemic world.
Mumbai Salesians’ Father [Dr.] Ajoy Fernandes who has a doctorate in Counselling Psychology with a major in Clinical Counselling and is Director Prafulta-Don Bosco Youth Counselling Services, Matunga-Mumbai, presents an online episodic video-series ‘Understanding and Helping Children with Learning Difficulties’. The video-series starting today 05 September, and to be aired on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of every month, on the MumbaiSalesians’ Youtube Channel, are broken up into short 10-minute interactive inputs describing the symptoms of learning and related difficulties; the formal and informal ways of assessing these difficulties; the types of beneficial interventions possible and the government-endorsed concessions across India. This is a Teachers’ Day gift from the famed clinical psychologist, as an appreciation to teachers all over, who mould, nourish, nurture, inspire, motivate, enlighten and mentor students on a daily basis.
This teacher’s manual offers a compassionate, research-based approach to tackling substance abuse among school children. Drawing from national surveys, psychological insights, and field experiences, it equips educators to identify early signs of abuse, intervene sensitively, and foster resilience through life skills training. The book emphasizes collaboration between schools, families, and communities, and includes practical activities, legal frameworks, and referral resources. With clarity and empathy, it empowers teachers to guide students toward healthier choices and substance-free lives, making it an essential tool for holistic education and youth well-being.
ARTICLES
This article by Dr. Ajoy Fernandes SDB, describes how efficient or inefficient processing of inputs from our senses facilitates or impedes the process of academic and practical learning.
VIDEOS
Episode 1 - Overview of Learning Difficulties, Sep 5, 2020
Episode 2 - Environmental and Intellectual Difficulties. Sep 19, 2020
Episode 3 - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Oct 3, 2020
Episode 4 - Specific Learning Disorder, Oct 17, 2020
Episode 5 - Developmental Coordination Disorder & Language Disorder, Oct 31, 2020
Episode 6 - Combinations of Learning Disorders, Nov 14, 2020
Episode 7 - Clinical Assessment. Nov 28, 2020
Episode 8 - Psychoeducational Assessment, Dec 12, 2020
Parenting: Early Childhood | Career Marg | Baroda, Nov 11, 2021
Parenting: Middle Childhood | Career Marg | Session 2 | Baroda, Nov 11, 2021