Sometimes, children need a little extra support to work through challenges in learning, development, behaviour, or emotional wellbeing. There is no shame in seeking support. In fact, taking that first step shows strength and love as a parent. Early intervention often makes a big difference, as it gives children the tools and strategies they need to cope better and thrive in school and daily life. The earlier the support is given, the more confident and resilient a child can become, paving the way for healthier growth and development.


Where to get help?

In primary school, children with learning needs may be identified and placed in Learning Support Programmes. Form teachers may also refer them to the school counsellor if challenges are observed. If you feel your child requires more support, it’s a good idea to discuss this with the form teacher. Parents can also inform the form teacher to request for the school counsellor to work with their child. When necessary, the school counsellor may further refer the child to a psychologist for assessment.

That said, sometimes it’s only a parent’s instinct (often a mother’s) that can pick up on subtle signs that something isn’t quite right. If you feel your child needs further assessment or support on issues related to developmental, learning, behavioural, emotional challenges, you may approach:

CGC, KKH, and NUH all provide specialist assessments and interventions for children with developmental, learning, behavioural, and emotional needs. Common areas they support include autism, ADHD, learning difficulties, speech and language delays, and motor skill challenges. Their services range from diagnostic assessments to therapy, counselling, and parent education, helping families better support their child’s development.

For a subsidised route, start by requesting a referral at your polyclinic. From my own experience, the first doctor I saw dismissed my concerns, saying referrals should be made by the school. I went back again, saw another doctor, and was given the referral I needed to the Child Guidance Clinic. If you feel strongly about your child’s needs, don’t give up. Always seek a second opinion. One thing to note is that there is a long waiting time to get the first appointment.


Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS)

Another alternative is to approach the Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS). DAS provides tailored interventions to support struggling learners, equipping them with tools and strategies to reach their full potential. 

Students who learn differently encompass a diverse group of students facing challenges in their educational journey. These challenges can arise from various factors, including specific learning differences such as Dyslexia or ADHD, gaps in foundational knowledge and skills, executive functioning difficulties, attention and focus issues, as well as emotional and behavioural concerns. Pricing is listed on their website, and there are subsidies and financial assistance available.

DAS offers dyslexia screening, and psycho-educational assessments conducted by psychologists. These assessments cover areas such as:

  • Dyslexia
  • Dyscalculia
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
  • Intellectual Disability
  • Giftedness
  • School Readiness


Inside Out Counselling & Wellness 

This is my personal recommendation and not an ad or affiliation. Inside Out Counselling & Wellness offers counselling services for children and teens (non-subsidised), among other services like marriage counselling and family therapy. In particular, Ms Yuyun has supported my daughter and me through a very difficult period. Her guidance and care gave us the strength to cope, and simply knowing that support was available a text away made the challenges more manageable. If you’re looking for support with emotional, behavioural, or learning needs, feel free to explore their website or drop them a message to see if their services offered meet your child’s needs.


Support for families on ADHD

The Society for the Promotion of ADHD Research & Knowledge (SPARK) is a voluntary, non-profit organisation founded by parents of children with ADHD. It began as a parent support group and has since grown into a community dedicated to raising awareness, supporting families, and promoting better understanding of ADHD among educators and the public.

SPARK helps families through monthly parent support group meetings, parenting workshops, family programmes, and collaborations with professionals and organisations. They also publish newsletters to spread awareness and participate in research efforts to improve knowledge and support for ADHD. Their mission is to help families cope better, build acceptance, and create a supportive environment for children with ADHD to thrive.


Support for caregiver

You can find support by joining Facebook groups dedicated to the particular challenges you or your child may be facing. These communities allow you to connect with others who have gone through similar struggles and can share advice and encouragement.

At the same time, remember that self-care is important. As caregivers, we need to stay strong for our loved ones. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try to slow down (even if it feels hard), practice simple breathing exercises, do something you enjoy, or spend a little quiet time with yourself.

If you need a listening ear, consider counselling sessions. Polyclinics also offer psychology services at subsidised rates.  Simply let the doctor know you would like a referral to the psychology department.


The information on this page is by no means exhaustive, but please know that help is always available when you reach out.

You are not alone. ❤️

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