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Opportunities Wasted in Waiting
Years before six, when the human brain wiring develops at the fastest pace, represent the best time for intervention. If children with autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, developmental delay and other developmental problems are given scientifically proven therapies early during this period, their condition could be effectively improved and the deteriorating rate could be arrested. Their need for rehabilitation services in the long term would also be reduced.
Sensorimotor stimulation and interaction with others before six years old also help build up the synapses, whereby a neuron can pass messages to another neuron, and facilitate the holistic development of the children, laying foundation for the long-term development of their physical fitness, social, learning and emotion management skills, thereby unlocking children’s unique potential.
Regrettably, as at November 2016, over 7,000 children with special needs were in the queue for pre-school training services subsidised by the Government. The majority of them have to wait their turns for 1.5 to 2 years and miss the best time for intervention as a result of this.
