DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – A Filipina who specializes in supporting children with autism has gone a step forward, advocating the advancement of education for them through innovations using social robots.
“This work is deeply fulfilling, as I witness the transformative impact it has on the lives of those I serve. Despite the challenges I’ve faced, the rewards have been immense,” said Lilac Perez Hosalla Schonberg, who holds a degree in electrical computer engineering from Ateneo de Manila’s Makati campus that she later on upgraded at Oxford University for her AI and mechatronic program.
Schonberg, one of the Middle East’s top education influencers, said her work advocating support for children with autism began while she was doing her master’s degree in social psychology with a focus on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) at Pearson Institute for Higher Education.
Authentic interactions
“Working with individuals on the spectrum has allowed me to have authentic interactions, which is something I adore. They are so pure. Majority of autistic persons I’ve seen have a beautiful directness. And I started to become fascinated with them so much so that I’ve managed to integrate the robotics into their behavioral acceptance,” Schonberg said.
She said robotics has been proven to be effective in supporting individuals with autism by enhancing social skills, communication, behavioral therapy, and cognitive development.
Schonberg further explained: “Robots offer consistent, personalized interactions that help children practice social responses, improve communication, and learn essential life skills. They also assist in emotional recognition and regulation, providing a safe and engaging environment for learning and behavior modification.”
Support center
Schonberg, who now runs a support center for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the first of its kind in the UAE, said that while not a universal solution, “robotics is a valuable tool in autism therapy when integrated into a broader, multi-disciplinary approach.”
Autism typically manifests as nonverbal and without eye contact, she said. “However, children with autism are highly responsive in terms of technology. They can interact and engage with social robots. They are capable of carrying on discussions, giving clues, and even expressing emotions,” Schonberg stressed.
Schonberg, a breast cancer survivor, has also created an individualized curriculum to develop social skills using a method that has been tested for more than five years.
Early signs
Schonberg said some early signs that may indicate a child is autistic include difficulties with social interaction, such as avoiding eye contact or not responding to their name; challenges with communication, whether verbal or non-verbal; and repetitive behaviors or intense interests in specific topics or activities.
“It’s also common to see a preference for routines and resistance to change. If you notice these signs, it’s important to seek advice from a qualified professional who can conduct a thorough assessment and provide a formal diagnosis, if necessary,” said Schonberg.
She said parents having a child afflicted with autistic should “embrace a supportive and individualized approach.”
Unique
“Every child with autism is unique, so it’s important to celebrate their strengths and understand their challenges. Creating a structured environment with clear routines can help them feel secure, while clear and patient communication supports their understanding and response,” Schonberg said.
She added that encouraging social interaction in controlled settings can aid in developing social skills. Engaging child with autism in decision-making can build their confidence, she also said.
Schonberg also stressed that seeking professional support from specialists like speech, occupational, and behavioral therapists is crucial for targeted interventions.
“Additionally, it’s important for parents to prioritize self-care and seek support when needed, as caring for a child with autism can be demanding. Staying informed about new research and being adaptable to your child’s evolving needs will help you provide the best support as they grow,” Schonberg said.
