The early years of a child’s life are filled with rapid growth, and for children with autism, this window of time is critical. In Singapore, where diagnosis and therapy access are evolving, many parents are asking, “What does early intervention look like, and how can it help my child grow and learn?” Through the lens of Janice Tay, founder of Bridging the Gap, and insights from clinical therapist Wong Suet Leng, this guide explores the life-changing impact of acting early.
What Is Early Intervention?
Early intervention refers to specialised support for children under six who show signs of developmental differences. It targets key areas like language, social skills, motor coordination, and independence—all essential for school and daily life.
It’s not about rushing children, but rather helping them meet the world on their own terms. In Singapore, early intervention includes a mix of speech therapy, occupational therapy, social skills coaching, and parent education.
“Early intervention is not just beneficial—it is essential in giving every child the opportunity to thrive.” — Janice Tay and Wong Suet Leng
Why Early Intervention Matters So Much in Singapore
Singapore has made strides in expanding early intervention, but many families still encounter long wait times and fragmented support. Understanding why early intervention matters can empower parents to act early and with confidence.
According to Singapore’s medical guidelines, the earlier the support begins, the greater the gains in communication, behaviour, and school readiness. The brain is most flexible between ages 1–4, which is why acting early is key.
“Structured early intervention helps children adapt to classroom settings, follow instructions, and engage with peers—setting them up for long-term success.” — Janice Tay
What Improvements Can Parents Expect with Early Support?
Parents often wonder what early intervention actually does for their child. While each child’s journey is different, here are the most common areas of improvement observed through timely therapy.
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Improved Communication: Children begin to understand and use language more effectively.
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Reduced Meltdowns and Behavioural Issues: Self-regulation and coping strategies are taught early.
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Increased Independence: Basic life skills like dressing, feeding, and following routines are nurtured.
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Better Social Integration: Structured learning environments prepare children for school transitions.
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Lower Long-Term Costs: Early gains can reduce the need for costly interventions later.
“By addressing developmental challenges early, we reduce the need for more intensive and costly therapies later in life.” — Janice Tay
When Should Parents Seek Help?
Many parents hesitate to seek help early, fearing they might overreact. But waiting can lead to missed opportunities during a critical developmental window. Here’s what to watch for.
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6–12 months: No eye contact, limited smiling, little interest in people.
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12–18 months: No babbling, doesn’t respond to name, lacks simple gestures.
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By 2 years: No simple words, difficulty following instructions, repetitive actions.
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By 3 years: Limited speech, avoids interaction, rigid routines, sensory sensitivity.
“If you notice something different, don’t wait—trust your instincts and seek support as early as possible.” — Janice Tay
Understanding Language Struggles in Children with Autism
Children with autism often face challenges learning language, especially in complex languages like English. These difficulties go beyond just “late talking.”
Common Difficulties:
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Delayed or Non-Typical Speech Development
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Receptive Language Delays: Struggling to understand instructions.
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Expressive Language Delays: Trouble forming sentences or expressing needs.
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Echolalia: Repeating what they hear instead of responding.
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Literal Thinking: Difficulty understanding jokes, idioms, and sarcasm.
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Social Use of Language (Pragmatics): Trouble with turn-taking and conversational flow.
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Sensory Overload: Loud environments hinder listening and response.
“Language learning isn’t just about ability—it’s also about the environment.” — Janice Tay
How Multi-Sensory Learning Makes Language Easier
At Bridging the Gap, multi-sensory learning is the foundation of language development. It involves engaging sight, sound, touch, and movement to make concepts easier to grasp.
How It Works:
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Visual aids and gestures accompany speech for clearer understanding.
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Hands-on activities reinforce words and sentence structure.
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Songs and rhythm help retain language naturally.
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Sensory bins and tactile tools build connections between words and meaning.
“Multi-sensory learning is not just a technique—it’s a mindset that embraces each child’s individuality.” — Janice Tay
How Bridging the Gap Customises Every Child’s Journey
No two children are the same, and at Bridging the Gap, each programme is designed around a child’s unique profile. Here’s how they ensure therapy is both meaningful and effective.
Customisation Process:
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Comprehensive Assessment across communication, sensory, motor, cognitive, and behavioural areas.
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Personalised Intervention Plans with measurable goals.
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Collaborative Therapies from speech to occupational to early childhood educators.
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Parent Involvement: Ongoing coaching, workshops, and weekly updates.
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Flexible and Evolving Plans that adjust with each child’s growth.
A Real Story of Hope: Liandee’s Son
Real families show how early intervention transforms lives. Liandee Wong’s son started at Bridging the Gap at age 4—and saw remarkable growth.
Highlights from His Journey:
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Loves school again. He looks forward to sessions.
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Therapy feels fun. He thrives in the Sensory Gym.
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Parents stay updated. Weekly summaries help guide home learning.
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Affordable yet high-quality. Therapy didn’t break the bank.
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Flexible formats. 1:1 sessions continued even during COVID.
“He’s happy. He’s learning. And we’re hopeful.” — Liandee Wong
Common Mistakes Parents Can Avoid
Parents are doing their best—but it’s easy to fall into traps. Here are common mistakes and how to course-correct gently.
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Waiting too long: Don’t wait for a diagnosis—start with observed needs.
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Comparing to others: Focus on your child’s progress, not anyone else’s.
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Over-prioritising academics: Social and life skills come first.
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Doing everything for them: Let your child try, fail, and learn.
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Inconsistency at home: Match your therapy routines.
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Expecting quick results: Progress takes time.
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Overloading schedules: Balance therapy with rest.
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Neglecting self-care: Your well-being fuels your advocacy.
“You’re doing your best, and that matters.” — Janice Tay
If You Feel Overwhelmed, This Is for You
Parenting a child with learning differences can be emotionally exhausting. Here’s Janice Tay’s heartfelt advice to anyone feeling lost or unsure.
“You don’t have to have it all figured out today. Celebrate every bit of growth, because every step counts.”
“You are your child’s greatest advocate—and your voice matters.”
“I used to think I needed to fix my son. But in truth, it’s my son who fixed me.” — Janice Tay
Simple Tips to Support Language at Home
You don’t need to be a therapist to build your child’s language—you just need to be present and intentional. These small actions make a big difference.
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Narrate daily routines: “We’re brushing teeth—up and down!”
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Follow their interest: Talk about what they play with.
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Use short, clear phrases: “Cup. Red cup. Drink juice.”
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Expand their words: Child says “car”—you say, “Big blue car!”
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Sit face-to-face: Let them see your expressions and lips.
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Pause after questions: Give 5–10 seconds for replies.
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Read daily: Use simple books with repetition.
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Sing songs: Add gestures to nursery rhymes.
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Praise all communication: Words, gestures, looks—acknowledge it all.
“Language grows through love, not pressure. Trust in the little moments.” — Janice Tay
Ending with Empowerment: A Parent’s Path Forward
Every child develops at their own pace—and every parent grows with them. Whether you’re just noticing signs or already navigating therapy, remember this: you’re not behind; you’re exactly where your child needs you to be.
“You don’t need to have the entire journey mapped out. Focus on today. The small steps you take each day build the foundation for lifelong communication.” – Janice Tay
With compassion, knowledge, and support, early intervention becomes more than a therapy—it becomes a lifeline.
