FridayOL

Singaporean parents are increasingly voicing concerns over the adequacy of support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), with many claiming the current system is negatively impacting their children's mental health and overall wellbeing. The calls for change echo similar sentiments expressed by parents in the UK, highlighting a global challenge in ensuring appropriate and timely support for vulnerable children.

The existing SEND framework, while aiming to provide assistance, is reportedly failing to meet the diverse needs of children across Singapore. Parents describe a frustrating cycle of lengthy assessments, bureaucratic hurdles, and a shortage of specialized resources, leaving children feeling isolated, anxious, and struggling to thrive. This lack of support isn't just affecting academic progress; it's significantly eroding their mental and emotional health.

“It's heartbreaking to witness,” says one parent from the East Coast, who wishes to remain anonymous. “My child has been struggling with [specific learning difficulty/disability], and the wait times for assessments and therapy are simply unacceptable. The uncertainty and lack of clear guidance have taken a toll on his confidence and emotional stability. He’s withdrawn and anxious, and it’s difficult to see him navigating school and social situations.”

The issues extend beyond wait times. Many parents report difficulties accessing qualified professionals, including therapists, educational psychologists, and special needs teachers. Furthermore, the consistency of support across different schools and institutions varies considerably, leading to fragmented care and confusion for both children and families.

What Needs to Change?

• Increased Funding & Resources: A significant injection of funding is needed to expand the availability of qualified professionals and specialized programs.
• Streamlined Assessment Process: The current assessment process needs to be simplified and expedited to reduce wait times and minimize stress for families.
• Improved Coordination: Better coordination between schools, healthcare providers, and social services is crucial to ensure a holistic and consistent approach to SEND support.
• Parental Involvement: Parents should be actively involved in the development and implementation of their child’s Individualised Education Plan (IEP). Their insights and expertise are invaluable.
• Early Intervention: Investing in early intervention programs can identify and address developmental delays and learning challenges before they escalate into more significant problems.

Experts agree that addressing these concerns is not just a matter of improving educational outcomes; it’s a matter of safeguarding the mental health and future prospects of Singapore's children with SEND. A more responsive and supportive system is urgently needed to ensure that all children have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

The call for reform is growing louder, and policymakers are urged to prioritize the needs of these vulnerable children and families. Failing to do so will have long-lasting consequences, not only for the children themselves but for the wider community.