Testimonial from parents

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