Think your child might need some extra support as they navigate school life? Many international schools in Singapore have programmes and therapies that aid students who are facing challenges, whether it be learning difficulties, emotional issues, special needs or others. Find out more about what’s available at two Singapore schools and a learning centre, from counselling and learning support to therapy and pastoral care.
Integrated International School
The Integrated International School aims to make every child feel included and valued. Beyond the classroom, the school has a team of qualified specialists and therapists to help students who need additional support. Therapies and programmes include behavioural therapy, counselling, social skills training, speech and occupational therapy.
Tips for parents
#1 Set attainable goals for your children
These can be a mixture of academic and social goals, such as being able to sequence the alphabet letters in the correct order or asking for help when they need it. Goals don’t have to be big; it’s about providing opportunities for your child to succeed and feel good about themselves. You can also use a reward chart to track their progress. However, be aware of what you hand out as rewards – try to give privileges instead of physical items (such as toys or candy), such as extra time on playdates, or a meal at their favourite restaurant.
#2 Have clear expectations for your children
Most importantly, follow through with those expectations consistently. This will help your child show less resistance towards following directions. Children often try to challenge the limits that are set for them, regardless of their social and intellectual ability. Instead of being strict and inflexible with your disciplinary action, try to use a clear and distinct message of what is and what is not acceptable behaviour. It should be accompanied by an explanation with a follow through.
– Brenda Ang, Behavioural Therapist
Melbourne Specialist International School
Melbourne Specialist International School (MSIS) integrates therapies collaboratively within the school to support students (three to 21 years) with special needs. This is done through an arts-based programme that uses dance, drama, music and visual arts to teach English, Mathematics and daily life skills.
Tips for parents
#1 How to manage an upset child
Routines are important for all children and especially for a child with ASD, developmental delays and ADHD. However, you may not always be able to avoid or prevent variations such as taking an alternative transport to school. Use a calming activity to soothe your child when you are unable to remove the source of discomfort, such as playing his favourite music. If your child is older, involve him in solving the problem so he sees that there is a resolution.
– Mrs Shri, Clinical Psychologist at Psynaptica and for MSIS
#2 Tackling disruptive behaviour
When you try to alter disruptive behaviour, you can expect the intensity and rate of the said behaviour to increase. Speaking softly and slowly can often have a positive impact. Reducing potential control battles will also decrease the likelihood of severe disruptive behaviour. Giving your child some degree of control by providing choices can be quite effective. Provide continuous positive feedback, such as “Thanks for listening” and “You’re doing great”. Most importantly, remember the things you do before a disruptive behaviour occurs; it will give insight into the cause and help keep it from happening again.
– Molly Molejana, Lead Senior Teacher at MSIS
The team at Lindamood Bell believes that everyone, including those with learning challenges, can learn to read and comprehend to their fullest potential. Teaching is based on each individual’s learning needs using an interactive and balanced approach. Using research-validated instruction, Lindamood Bell students of all different ages and abilities have made progress in reading, language comprehension, critical thinking, and mathematics skills. The programme focuses on developing sensory-cognitive functions to help children in comprehension and self-correction. Courses are available at the Learning Centres or online.
Tips for parents
#1 Schedule dedicated reading time
Keep reading skills fresh by including reading time, library visits or trips to the bookstore on your child’s daily schedule. At home, it may be helpful to create cosy spaces that are conducive to reading. While on a vacation, reading time in the evening can be a great way to wind down for the day. During reading, or just after, ask questions so you can monitor for understanding, such as “What do you think might happen next?” or “How would you change the ending of the story?”
#2 Consider a learning ability evaluation for your child
If your child isn’t enjoying reading, a learning ability evaluation can help uncover the issues affecting reading and comprehension. This, in turn, will help you come up with a more appropriate and effective learning plan.
– Rosie Shand, Centre Manager for Singapore