My child is bilingual (English + Mandarin). Could that explain the speech delay?

Bilingualism does not cause speech delay. While bilingual children may have a slightly different vocabulary distribution across their languages, their total vocabulary (across all languages combined) should still meet developmental milestones. Research from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and local studies confirm this. If your child's combined word count across both languages is low, it's worth getting a proper assessment.

The paediatrician said to “wait and see” — should I?

"Wait and see" can be appropriate — but only with a clear plan and a set review date. The brain is most receptive to learning in the first three years of life. If your instinct says something is off, trust it. Getting an assessment doesn't mean labelling your child. It means getting clarity. And if everything is fine, you'll have peace of mind. If something does need support, early intervention can make a profound difference.

My child watches and has a lot of screen time. Is that causing the delay?

Excessive screen time can reduce the quality and quantity of face-to-face interaction, which is the primary driver of language development. The Singapore Health Hub guidelines recommend no screen time before 18 months (except video calls) and limited supervised time from 18–24 months. If screen time has been high, reducing it and increasing interactive play is a good starting point — but it doesn't replace a professional assessment if you have concerns.

What’s the difference between Global Developmental Delay (GDD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Global Developmental Delay (GDD) refers to when a child is significantly below expected milestones in two or more developmental domains — it's a descriptive term used before age 5 while the cause is still being established. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by differences in social communication and the presence of restricted or repetitive behaviours. A child can have GDD without ASD, ASD without significant GDD, or both. A multidisciplinary assessment is the only reliable way to distinguish these. BtG's team works with both, and with many other diagnoses too — every child's profile is different.

How do I access the Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children (EIPIC) in Singapore?

In Singapore, the Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children (EIPIC) is a government-funded programme for children aged 0–6 with developmental needs, administered by SG Enable. Children are referred by a developmental paediatrician, polyclinic doctor, or hospital after a formal assessment. Subsidies are income-tiered. At Bridging the Gap, we work alongside the EIPIC framework and support families through the referral process. Contact us to find out more.

Supporting Your Child’s Wellbeing at Home

At Bridging the Gap, we believe that every aspect of your child’s wellbeing matters, whether at home, at school, or within the community.

As summer approaches, this season offers an opportunity to slow down, spend quality time together, and continue supporting your child’s growth in meaningful ways. While the school routine may pause, learning, confidence, and wellbeing can continue to flourish through simple everyday experiences.

Here are 5 practical ways you can support your child’s wellbeing at home this summer.

1. Keep a Simple Daily Routine

An example of morning routine visual schedule

Remember, a routine doesn’t have to be rigid or perfectly planned. Even a few consistent parts of the day can help your child feel more settled, supported, and ready to enjoy the summer.

Ways to build a routine at home:

Wake up and go to bed at similar times each day.
Enjoy meals together whenever possible.
Let your child know what will happen next by using simple, reassuring phrases such as, “After breakfast, we’ll play outside.”

2. Turn Everyday Chores into Learning Opportunities

Pouring activities help develop attention, focus, and coordination through hands-on practice.

There is no need to aim for perfection. Offer guidance when needed, encourage your child’s efforts, and celebrate every small achievement. These everyday moments can build confidence, foster independence, and make learning a natural part of family life.

Ways to involve your child in daily tasks:

Fold towels or match socks.
Put groceries away.
Sort laundry by colour.

3. Make time for Active Play

Chasing game at home encourages active play

Children don’t need organized sports to stay active. Moving their bodies helps improve mood, attention, sleep, and overall well-being.

Simple ideas:

Take a short walk around your neighborhood.
Play catch with a ball.
Dance together to favourite songs.
Visit a nearby playground.
Blow bubbles and chase them.

4. Give your child opportunity to be independent

Two kids putting toys away after play encourages independence and teaches responsibility

Allow your child to try things on their own, even if it takes a little longer. Building independence starts with small everyday tasks.

Encourage your child to:

Put on their own shoes.
Pack their bag.
Throw rubbish into the bin.
Put toys away after playing.

5. Spend some quality time together

A simple empty box at home can become a race car creating meaningful family bonding moments.

One of the best ways to support your child’s emotional well-being is by giving them your full attention, even for a short time.

You could:

Read a favourite book together.
Play with blocks or toys your child enjoys.
Draw or colour side by side.

Supporting your child’s wellbeing doesn’t require grand plans, just consistent love, encouragement, and everyday opportunities to learn and grow. At Bridging the Gap, we are honoured to walk alongside families, empowering every child with the skills, confidence, and support they need to thrive at home, in school, and beyond.