As a parent or caregiver, it is not easy to watch your child struggle. When they are behind their peers developmentally, it can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders and you may be overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. But, there is hope.
One of the best things you can do for your child is to enrol them in an Early Intervention Programme (EIP). EIPs are designed to help children with differing needs and can help children with developmental delays catch up to their peers. These programmes can provide significant support for children and their families as they work to overcome their challenges.
Before your child begins their EIP, you may be worried about how they will adjust to a new environment and routine. Here are three things you can do to prepare them for this new experience.
1. Pre-empt your child
Try to find out as much as you can about the EIP so that you can explain it to your child in simple terms. Talk to your child about the programme and what he can expect, such as explaining that they will be meeting new people and learning new things. You may want to get a picture of your child’s new teacher and the classroom environment so that you can show them to your child before the class. Introduce your child to their new teacher by the name they will be calling the teacher while referring to the photo. It may also be helpful to visit the programme's centre together so that your child can get a sense of the setting. This will help your child feel more confident when he begins his sessions in the centre.
2. Understand and introduce the EIP routine to your child
You may ask the centre for information on their general EIP activities and routines so you can practise them in the comfort of your own home. Set aside some time each day to work on the activities and routines related to the programme. This will help your child get used to the idea of spending time on them. Be sure to reinforce your child's progress by praise and encouragement. Most EIP centres use visual schedule boards and this can be used at home as well. However, do be patient as most children require the environment of the EIP classrooms for them to learn how to use these schedules.
3. Maintain a positive attitude
Finally, make sure to keep a positive attitude. As you are your child’s primary caregiver, they can easily pick up on your energy, so it is important to stay positive and encouraging. It will be hard at times, but try to remember that EIP is an opportunity for your child to grow and thrive. It is also important to be patient and realistic in your expectations. EIP is a process, not a quick fix. It will take time for your child to make progress, so don’t expect miracles overnight. Likewise, don’t put pressure on yourself or your child—just do the best you can each day.
Get early intervention in Singapore at MindChamps Allied Care
By following the above three tips, you can help your child adjust to their new Early Intervention Programme and get the most out of it.
At MindChamps Allied Care, we offer therapy and early intervention services in Singapore run by a team of professionals, educators and trained speech and occupational therapists. Upon receiving your inquiry, we will contact you for a discussion to have a better understanding of your needs and the type of therapy or programme your child requires. We will then schedule an Initial Assessment for the proposed specific programme or therapy with both parent and child to understand your needs, work out a therapy plan as well as the long- and short-term goals.
The EIP is or children between the 18 months to 6 years of age. After their EIP journey ends, usually when they graduate into primary school, we can continue to assist them in their learning through educational therapy that can help prepare your little one for the next step of his school journey.
Book a centre visit together with your child to find out more about our intervention programmes today!
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