Our son,
Raphael, was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at the age of 2 years
9 months old. The doctor recommended early intervention, speech therapy
and occupational therapy for him. We came across the Early Intervention Programme
(EIP) at Early Steps Care Centre (ESCC) through their website and called to
enquire. Their helpful staff explained the programme to us in detail and
invited us to visit their centre before we make any decisions.
Subsequently an assessment was performed by the teachers to identify
Raphael's developmental delays so that they can set individualized goals for
him.
At 3 years
old, Raphael started his EIP at ESCC, being one of the younger students there.
Initially, he had great difficulty participating in almost all the
activities of the EIP. With the guidance from the teachers he gradually overcame
his fears and anxieties and happily joined in the activities. He is given tasks
every session tailored to his developmental delays and two books to read to
cultivate reading habits. The tasks are to be brought home later for further
practice. The teachers integrate therapy in many of their activities. They
also work on letting the children explore with all their senses. By
requiring parents or grandparents to accompany him during the EIP, we are able
to participate with him in activities and can understand even more, his
weaknesses and issues especially when in a group setting. We've learned a lot
through the EIP, about tools and activities that can engage and help him with
his developmental delays and we continue to practice with Raphael at home.
After a few
months, he has progressed so well through the programme and is finally catching
up with his fine and gross motor skills, self-help skills, overcoming sound and
touch sensitivities, and participating in group activities. We are amazed
to see a lot of progress in less than a year. More importantly, he is
very happy to go to ESCC and always asks for more "homework" to do.
No doubt, as Raphael continues to improve, there will be new issues and
challenges to overcome, but we feel we are better equipped to deal with them.
We are grateful to the ESCC team for their dedication. There is not
enough praise for the teachers who work endlessly with such positive attitude
and love for all the children.
Mr. & Mrs. Jason Kho
6 May 2016
