The WeCAN EIP programme was developed in 2004 as a key component of Project Platinum to meet the needs of young children on the autism spectrum and their families in Singapore. It provides autism-specific intervention for children between the ages of 18 months to 6 years to help them gain functional and independent skills for a more successful transition.
WeCAN EIP is based on international best practices for effective early intervention for young children on the autism spectrum:
- Treat each child as an individual, with unique needs, abilities and priorities
- Cultivate supportive and respectful relationships with the family.
- Routinely analyse the underlying causes for the behaviours characteristic of autism and proactively manage the reasons for these
- Employ a structured approach to teaching
- Focus on the development of specific skills, and on increasing social communication and understanding
- Implement outcome measures to review progress on goals and methodologies. Foster integration and social interaction opportunities with peers
Our Vision
To be a recognised leader in quality and professional early intervention services in autism and other related conditions for children, families and practitioners in Singapore and the rest of Asia.
Our Mission
To provide quality early intervention for young children on the autism spectrum and equip their caregivers to help them maximise their fullest potential.
Our Guiding Principles
- The earliest possible start to intervention is essential
- Services must be individualised for children and families
- Children on the autism spectrum require intensive engagement
- Intervention is based on a developmental curriculum designed to address the specialised needs of a child on the autism spectrum
- Family involvement and participation is critical
- Intervention is Planned and Systematic
- Challenging Behaviours are addressed using positive behavioural support
- Intervention should focus on the development of spontaneous communication skills
- The development of social relationships is based on a child's ability for joint attention, play and interaction with others
- The transition between pre-school and primary school needs to be planned carefully
- Placement in an 'ideal' school programme should be made taking into account academic as well as other important factors such as communication, social level, cognitive processing, anxiety management, and sensory self-control
