Top 5 Early Intervention Programmes for Kids in Singapore
Preparing children for primary school can be a challenging yet rewarding journey. Early intervention programmes play a vital role in supporting children with learning difficulties, ensuring they are equipped with the skills they need to thrive in a formal education environment. In Singapore, there are several exceptional early intervention programmes tailored to support children who need extra learning support. Here, we highlight five of the best programmes that parents can consider.
1. Mighty Oaks Learning Centre
Best for: Holistic development with a focus on social, emotional, and academic readiness
The Mighty Oaks learning centre is renowned for its child-centered approach. This early intervention programme aims to equip children with essential skills for primary school, including language, motor, cognitive, and social-emotional development.
Key Features:
- Small Group Learning: Children receive individualized attention with a low child-to-teacher ratio.
- Multi-Disciplinary Approach: Therapists from various specialties (speech, occupational, and educational therapists) collaborate to ensure holistic development.
- Focus on Social Skills: Emphasis on developing social-emotional regulation and positive peer interactions, which are critical for the school environment.
- The only DIR-Floortime school in Asia: The DIR- Floortime model was developed by Dr. Stanley Greenspan and Dr. Serena Wieder. The model addresses the child’s developmental capacities (D) and difficulties in sensory, motor, cognitive and language/ communicative development (I) through positive relationships (R).
Parents seeking a nurturing and evidence-based programme with a strong track record in preparing children for primary school will find Mighty Oaks to be a solid choice.
2. EIPIC (Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children)
Best for: Children with developmental delays and diagnosed special needs
The EIPIC programme is a government-funded initiative designed to support children with developmental needs. Available at various centres across Singapore, it caters to children with conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), global developmental delay, and speech and language delays.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Therapy Services: Speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy are provided.
- Subsidised Fees: Parents can receive government subsidies to make early intervention more affordable.
- Individualised Learning Plans (IEP): Each child follows a customised plan that addresses their unique developmental needs.
- Family Involvement: Parents are encouraged to participate in their child’s intervention plan to support continuity at home.
If your child has been referred by a healthcare professional, EIPIC is an accessible and affordable option for families in need of structured support.
3. Rising Stars Early Intervention Programme
Best for: Academic preparation for children in mainstream preschool who need school readiness
The Rising Stars Early Intervention Programme offers a curriculum specially designed to boost early academic and learning skills. It focuses on developing cognitive, language, and motor skills that are essential for the transition to mainstream school.
Key Features:
- School Readiness Curriculum: Lessons cover pre-reading, pre-writing, numeracy, and problem-solving skills.
- Individualised and Group Learning: Children engage in both one-on-one and group-based activities to build confidence and social skills.
- Parent-Teacher Collaboration: Parents are kept updated on their child’s progress and are provided with home-based strategies to reinforce learning.
- Focus on Independence and Self-Regulation: Children are guided to become more independent in following routines and instructions, preparing them for a formal classroom environment.
This programme is ideal for parents who want their children to develop essential academic skills before starting primary school.
4. Bright Path Inclusive Preschool
Best for: Inclusive learning environment with neurotypical and neurodivergent peers
Bright Path Inclusive Preschool is a unique option for parents looking for a setting where neurodivergent and neurotypical children learn together. This inclusive model fosters empathy, collaboration, and diversity from a young age.
Key Features:
- Inclusive Education Model: Children with learning needs and typically developing peers learn side by side.
- On-Site Therapy: Access to on-site speech, occupational, and behavioural therapy within the school environment.
- Individualised Support: Tailored learning plans for children with additional needs to ensure developmental milestones are met.
- Nurturing Environment: Teachers, therapists, and facilitators create an environment where every child feels valued.
This programme is ideal for parents seeking an inclusive learning experience that values diversity and promotes empathy.
5. Wee Care Early Intervention Programme
Best for: Play-based approach to learning and development
The Wee Care Early Intervention Programme takes a play-based learning approach that emphasizes the natural development of cognitive, sensory, and social skills. The programme encourages exploration and discovery, which makes learning enjoyable for young children.
Key Features:
- Play-Based Learning: Children learn through interactive, play-based activities that promote curiosity and creativity.
- Comprehensive Development: The curriculum covers cognitive, sensory, and motor skills as well as social-emotional development.
- Therapy Integration: Speech and occupational therapy are embedded into everyday learning.
- Focus on Communication: Strong emphasis on developing children’s language and social interaction skills, which are critical for school readiness.
This programme is best suited for parents who believe that children learn best through play and want to cultivate a love of learning from an early age.
Which Early Intervention Programme Should You Choose?
When choosing an early intervention programme for your child, it’s important to consider:
- Your Child’s Unique Needs: Does your child require more support with social, motor, or language development?
- Programme Focus: Are you looking for academic preparation, inclusive education, or holistic development?
- Budget and Accessibility: Government-subsidised programmes (like EIPIC) may be more affordable for some families.
Each programme on this list offers unique benefits. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to early intervention, the Mighty Oaks Learning Centre stands out. Parents who want an affordable option can consider EIPIC, while those looking for a play-based learning environment may prefer Wee Care.
Conclusion
Early intervention can make a world of difference in preparing children who need extra support for primary school. Programmes like Mighty Oaks and Rising Stars are designed to ensure children develop the cognitive, social, and emotional skills needed for a seamless transition to primary education. If you’re unsure which programme is best for your child, consider scheduling a consultation or tour with one of the centres to see how the programme aligns with your child’s developmental goals.
