Embracing differences, challenging stereotypes

Early Intervention Programme (EIP)

Strategically located in Bangsar, Subang and Ampang KL, ABC ensures easy accessibility for families across Malaysia and beyond

Why Early Intervention Matters

Early intervention means giving help to your child as early as possible when there are signs of delays in their development — things like talking, walking, learning, or playing.

Improve speech and communication

Develop social and play skills

Reduce disruptive behavior including meltdowns and tantrums

Prepares a child for school and successful reintegration into mainstream education

When should early intervention start?

As early as possible (as early at 14 months)— ideally before age 3.

The moment a parent, doctor, or teacher notices that a child isn’t meeting typical milestones (like talking, walking, or interacting with others), it’s a good time to start looking into early intervention.

Why Early Intervention is key?

1. “Let’s wait and see — they’ll catch up.”

Some kids do develop at their own pace, but waiting too long can delay important support. Early signs are not always "just a phase" — and early help is better than late help.

2. Comparing their child to siblings or other kids

Every child is unique. Just because an older sibling was a “late talker” and turned out fine doesn’t mean it’s safe to wait. Milestones matter — and red flags shouldn't be ignored.

3. Thinking it’s their fault and feeling ashamed

Parents sometimes blame themselves or feel guilty. But delays are not anyone’s fault — and seeking help shows strength, not failure.

4. Fearing the label or diagnosis

Some parents avoid early support because they’re afraid of labels like autism, ADHD, or speech delay. But early help doesn’t mean a lifelong label — it just means giving the child the support they need now to thrive.

5. Relying only on advice from friends or family

“Well-meaning” advice like “boys talk late” or “don’t worry, my kid was the same” can be misleading. It’s always better to check with a professional — just in case.

6. Waiting for a school or doctor to raise concerns

Sometimes, parents wait for teachers or doctors to point things out. But parents know their child best. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to trust your gut and ask for help early.

7. Worrying that therapy is too much for a young child

Early intervention is often play-based, fun, and very natural. It’s not about pressure — it’s about building skills through connection and play.

Bottom Line:

The biggest mistake is waiting too long.
Early support gives your child the best chance to grow, learn, and shine.

Common mistakes by parents

1. “Let’s wait and see — they’ll catch up.”

Some kids do develop at their own pace, but waiting too long can delay important support. Early signs are not always "just a phase" — and early help is better than late help.

2. Comparing their child to siblings or other kids

Every child is unique. Just because an older sibling was a “late talker” and turned out fine doesn’t mean it’s safe to wait. Milestones matter — and red flags shouldn't be ignored.

3. Thinking it’s their fault and feeling ashamed

Parents sometimes blame themselves or feel guilty. But delays are not anyone’s fault — and seeking help shows strength, not failure.

4. Fearing the label or diagnosis

5. Relying only on advice from friends or family

“Well-meaning” advice like “boys talk late” or “don’t worry, my kid was the same” can be misleading. It’s always better to check with a professional — just in case.

6. Waiting for a school or doctor to raise concerns

Sometimes, parents wait for teachers or doctors to point things out. But parents know their child best. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to trust your gut and ask for help early.

7. Worrying that therapy is too much for a young child

Early intervention is often play-based, fun, and very natural. It’s not about pressure — it’s about building skills through connection and play.

Bottom Line:

The biggest mistake is waiting too long.
Early support gives your child the best chance to grow, learn, and shine.

At what age can Autism be diagnosed?

Signs of Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental delays can be observed in infants. By age 2 years, symptoms can become more visible.

If you plan to get a diagnostic test, the results may not be as accurate if your child is younger than 12 months old. This is because their skills have yet to be fully developed. On the other hand, it will become increasingly challenging for older children to learn and therapists to teach if parents delay the intervention for too long and only start to seek help when the child is more than 3 years of age.

If you are worried or unsure of when is the right time, talk to us today

Here are the developmental milestones your child should achieve

By the end of 12 months:

Does not babble or produce various sounds
Limited use of gestures such as pointing and waving
Little display of affection to their primary caregiver(s)
Does not follow moving objects with their eyes
Does not respond to their name

By the end of 18 months:

Does not respond to common instructions eg: sit down, wash hands, kiss mummy
Does not have a vocabulary of at least 10 words your child can vocalize and understand
Does not walk
Does not imitate actions including how to play

By the end of 24 months:

Does not communicate in minimally 2 word phrases eg: daddy carry, more cookie, etc
Fleeting attention; unable to sustain attention to play
Increased tantrums or meltdowns
Observance of odd repetitive behaviors or insisting centain things to be done a certain way
Prefers to play alone