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KENNIESHA BURRELL AUTISM: Life as a Mother of Two Autistic Sons in Jamaica: Our Story, Struggles & Hope


By Kenniesha Burrell

Introduction
My name is Kenniesha Burrell, and I’m a mother of two amazing boys who are on the autism spectrum. I live in St. Mary, Jamaica, and I’m surrounded by a strong circle of support—my mother, the boys’ father, and their sister. Every day is a journey filled with love, learning, and challenges, but also purpose.

Living with Autism: Our Reality
My sons have mild autism, which means they are quite functional. Academically, they are brilliant. But socially, they face serious struggles. They often have meltdowns, cry without reason, or become withdrawn. Sometimes they speak, but not in full sentences, and while I can often understand their needs, it’s difficult.
One of my sons walks on his toes and presses his chin against hard surfaces when overwhelmed. He’ll also hit his chin with the palm of his hand or sit and cry, leaving us unsure how to help.

The Emotional and Mental Load
There are days when the meltdowns are so intense, I feel lost. Sometimes, I just don’t know what to do. It can feel isolating. In Jamaica, there is not enough emotional, mental, or financial support for children with autism and their families. Unlike other countries where there are structured programs and benefits, we often feel alone in this fight.

Education Struggles in Jamaica
Getting your child into a proper school is a major hurdle. There are not enough special needs teachers or schools with autism support. Even getting your child tested can be frustrating—the wait can be up to 2 years, which is unacceptable during critical early development stages.

Government Support
The Ministry of Education provides shadows (support aides) for autistic children in public schools. But sometimes, the schools offered are far away, especially hard if you don’t drive. Once the assessment is submitted, your child is placed in a special needs category and a shadow is assigned if available.
If the school is approved by the government, tuition may be covered.

Places You Can Get Help in Jamaica

  1. Jamaica Autism Support Association (JASA)
    Phone: 876-776-6827 / 876-354-4894
    Email: jasa.jm2k9@gmail.com
    Website: www.autismjamaica.org

  2. Jamaica Autism Academy
    Phone: 876-286-5173
    Email: jamaicaautismacademy@gmail.com
    Website: jamaicaautismacademy.com

  3. Promise Learning Centre
    58 Hagley Park Road, Kingston 10
    Phone: 876-631-5201 / 631-5164 / 906-8283
    Email: promiselearningcentre@yahoo.com
    Website: promiselearningcentre.com

  4. Mico CARE Centre
    5 Manhattan Road, Kingston 5
    Phone: 876-236-2495 / 876-929-7720
    Website: themico.edu.jm

  5. Ministry of Education - Special Education Unit
    Phone: 876-967-2312
    Email: specialedu@moey.gov.jm

How to Know If Your Child Might Be Autistic
Look out for signs like:

  • Delayed speech
  • No eye contact
  • Repetitive behaviors
  • Social withdrawal
  • Unexplained tantrums

If you notice these signs, get a psychological or educational assessment. The earlier, the better.

What We Need More Of

  • More testing centers with shorter wait times
  • More autism-trained teachers
  • Transportation support for schools with shadows
  • Awareness and emotional support for parents
  • Community support groups

Final Words
I love my boys deeply. Some days are heavy, but I believe God gave me these children for a reason. I’m sharing this story to help another parent feel less alone. If you're in Jamaica and facing similar struggles, reach out to the support services above. Don’t give up. Your voice matters, and so does your child's.

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