test
“The theme today is “Uplift Caregivers, Uplift Community,” because we don’t just want caregivers to do well
CAREcottage is an initiative by CaringSG to support special needs caregivers who have started enterprises to support their dependants and themselves.
This article was contributed by Shylyn Tan, a caregiver of four children, including a child with autism.
Hi, I’m Shylyn.
The Shy Crafter was inspired by my son, Isaac, who was diagnosed with ASD (autism spectrum disorder) since he was 6 years old. Over time, while facilitating Isaac to alleviate his sensory disturbances with clay moulding, I discovered my passion for polymer clay crafts in late 2020.
Our goal is to build a platform to bring about more awareness of ASD, support inclusion and celebrate abilities through our polymer clay crafts, featuring dinosaur creations by Isaac, together with my miniature food and floral wearables.
Having just joined CaringSG in January 2024, we have been warmly welcomed by all the CAREcottage members.
Participating in CaringSG’s First CAREcottage Bazaar at SAFRA Punggol on 17 March 2024
This is our first-time boothing alongside some experienced CAREcottage members. We enjoyed ourselves greatly and learned a lot from the other caregivers.
Isaac had the privileged opportunity to meet Dr Lim Hong Huay and Guest-of-Honour Mdm Rahayu Mahzam, who gave him encouragement and acknowledgement to his works, motivating him to persevere in his clay crafts.
Customers can purchase handmade polymer clay dinosaur creations by Isaac Chang, the resident teenage clay artist with ASD.
Customers can also choose from a wide selection of handmade polymer clay miniature food and floral earrings and accessories by Shylyn, mum of Isaac.
“The theme today is “Uplift Caregivers, Uplift Community,” because we don’t just want caregivers to do well
“The theme today is “Uplift Caregivers, Uplift Community,” because we don’t just want caregivers to do well; we also want the community to be strong. The reason why caregivers chip in is that we are building the community, not just for ourselves, but for our children and future generations.”
CaringSG’s inaugural Family Day took place on 7th September 2024, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Enabling Village. This special event, in partnership with Enabling Village, Singapore’s first inclusive community space, brings together the public, caregivers, persons with disabilities and their supporters for a day filled with learning, connection, and memorable experiences.
“We are stronger together. Whether it’s joining a support group, marching side by side in the Purple Parade, sharing the healing power of a journal, or simply being there for each other, every action we take, no matter how small, contributes to a more compassionate and resilient community.”
“CaringSG be focusing on providing you more support for mental health and financial resilience—whether it’s self-care, planning for the future, exploring career options, or simply ensuring you have someone to talk to when things get tough.”
In 2024-2025, with support from SG Enable, and in collaboration with the Enabling Services Hubs by SG Enable and partners that aim to bring disability support closer to home, CaringSG will be setting up 10 CAREkaki chapters in 10 constituencies in Singapore.
© 2024 CaringSG Limited. 202034409E. | Personal Data Clause | Terms Of Service