Questions
What is WHO Caregiver Skills Training?
WHO Caregiver Skills Training (CST) is an evidence-based program developed by the World Health Organization for caregivers of children with developmental delays or disabilities. It teaches practical strategies for communication, daily living, play, problem-solving, and caregiver wellbeing that can be used in everyday routines. The program has been field-tested in more than 30 countries. Learn more from WHO.
Who developed WHO Caregiver Skills Training?
WHO Caregiver Skills Training was developed by the World Health Organization in collaboration with partners around the world, including Autism Speaks, to support families of children with developmental delays or disabilities. The program was designed to be practical, culturally adaptable, and deliverable by trained non-specialists in community settings.
Who is it for?
We support caregivers of children with developmental delays or disabilities. We are starting in Nairobi, Kenya, where we will work with local partners to make evidence-based caregiver support more accessible to families.
Why focus on caregivers?
Caregivers are with their children every day. Yet families raising children with developmental delays or disabilities often have limited access to practical guidance, community, and support. We believe caregivers should be equipped with skills they can use in everyday moments—at home, during play, and throughout daily routines.
Why WHO Caregiver Skills Training?
We start with programs that have a strong evidence base rather than creating something from scratch. WHO Caregiver Skills Training was developed for use in low-resource settings and designed to be delivered by trained non-specialists in community settings. We are testing what it takes to deliver the program well in Nairobi.
Why start in Nairobi?
Nairobi has significant need for early childhood and disability support, alongside a strong network of local organizations and community partners. Starting in one city allows us to learn carefully, build local capacity, and understand what it takes to deliver caregiver support well before expanding.
How do you know if your work is helping?
We measure what we do. We listen to caregivers, track participation and wellbeing, assess how well programs are delivered, and document what they cost. We use what we learn to improve the program before expanding.
Will you create your own programs?
Not initially. We believe in starting with interventions that already have evidence behind them. We will first focus on implementing and learning from proven approaches such as WHO Caregiver Skills Training. As we learn what families and communities need, we may adapt or develop additional approaches where there are meaningful gaps.
Where do you work?
We are starting in Nairobi, Kenya, where there is significant need and a strong local ecosystem of organizations, providers, and community partners. We aim to learn what works in Nairobi and build toward reaching more families across Kenya.
How can I help?
There are several ways to get involved: partner with us, support our work financially, volunteer your skills, or join our team. Get in touch to learn more.
Are you a caregiver looking for support?
We are currently preparing our first caregiver program in Nairobi. If you are interested in participating or learning about future programs, get in touch.