What is early intervention in Singapore?
Picture this, you are in the playground and you see kids around the same age as your child. You cannot help but compare their actions and behavior. If you are not seeing in your little one what you see in other kids, it is only natural to feel worried.
Infants and toddlers develop a lot of skills. If you feel that your child’s growth is delayed or is not meeting developmental milestones, let your pediatrician know right away. Your child may need early intervention.
What is Early Intervention Program in Singapore?
Early intervention is for children aged six and below. It provides support and services for kids who are experiencing developmental delays. Through an early intervention program, a child may be able to catch up and perform better not only in school but in life overall.
Children are equipped with the skills they need to achieve their maximum potential and also keep secondary disabilities from progressing further. Early intervention centres in Singapore provide services that are tailored to the developmental needs of the kids.
Children of ages two and below can join a specific training programme targeted for kids their age. Parents and caregivers are included in the program as they are also taught intervention strategies to be practiced at home.
These strategies are crucial for the little ones to learn how to perform normal daily activities. Once the kids reach the age of two, they can transition to the EIPIC@Centre programme.
EIPIC@Centre provides therapy and educational services to children who have been diagnosed with developmental delays or disabilities. Students will be assessed regularly to monitor their progress so instructors can also customise their goals and strategies accordingly.
Once children graduate from EIPIC@Centre, they move on to the DS-Plus programme. This programme prepares kids for the larger class setting. Early intervention professionals work together to ensure that students receive the support and guidance they need.
How Will I Know if My Child is Qualified?
Your little one may be qualified if he/she is aged 6 and below snd diagnosed with developmental delays or disabilities. They may also be qualified if your pediatrician has recommended them for EIPIC. It is also worth noting that Early Intervention in Singapore is only open to citizens and permanent residents.
If your child is already attending and doing well in the EIPIC@Centre programme, they may no longer need to enter the DS-Plus programme. Your child’s instructor will discuss with you suitable programmes depending on the results of their assessment.
Finding the Best Early Intervention Centre
The Early Intervention Center should be certified by the Ministry of Social and Family Development. Check as well if the institution is approved by SG Enabled to provide Early Intervention Programs. It also helps if you can use the Child Development Account (CDA) to finance your child’s EI programme.
The Centre should be providing one-to-one or group-based programmes to meet each child’s special needs. It is crucial to maintain a small student-teacher ratio to ensure that children are provided the attention they require.
As soon as you notice issues with your child, coordinate with their doctor right away. Kids develop at their own pace so if you are seeing delays with your child, do not be disheartened. Now more than ever, they need your support and optimism.