Pilot Run for Extension of Development Support and Learning Support Programme for Differently-abled Children

Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) when will the pilot for extending the Development Support and Learning Support (DS-LS) Programme to children who are differently abled at the nursery levels end; and (b) what factors will be taken into consideration to determine whether to make the DS-LS Programme permanent at the nursery levels.

The Development Support-Learning Support (DS-LS) Programme supports preschool children aged five and six with mild developmental delays or learning needs. The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) piloted the programme to preschool children aged three to four in 2022. ECDA is currently working with a consultancy team from the KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital to review the outcomes of the pilot.

In evaluating the outcomes of the pilot, ECDA will consider the effectiveness of the support provided and resources required, as well as how the programme may complement existing preschool-based early intervention services.