From the first "something feels different" to your child getting the right support — here's exactly what to do, in order.
Most parents don't arrive here after one big moment — it's usually a slow build-up of small ones. If any of this feels familiar, it's worth taking seriously.
There isn't one way to get your child assessed in Singapore — there are three, and most parents only find out about one of them.
| 2a · Public route ↗ | 2b · Private route ↗ | 2c · School route ↗ | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it starts | Polyclinic or GP referral to a hospital | Book directly with DAS or a private psychologist | School refers to an MOE Educational Psychologist |
| Cost | Subsidised, income-tested | From ~$1,300–3,500+ | Free |
| Wait time | Months | Often weeks | Depends on school's queue |
| Best for | Prioritising cost | Needing a fast, detailed report | School already raising concerns |
Getting the report is the milestone everyone focuses on. Reading it properly is where the real work starts.
A dyslexia report and an ADHD report measure different things — and a child can have both at once. If your report only addresses one, ask directly whether the other was ruled out or simply not assessed. Treating one without recognising the other means only half-fixing the problem.
Not every family needs every scheme below — this is a map to pick from, not a checklist to complete.
This is where the day-to-day support actually happens.
With Access Arrangements or in-class support. Often right when accommodations are enough.
Read more →MOE-funded, structured for specific needs. Worth considering when mainstream isn't working.
Read more →Private, smaller class sizes, different curriculum. For families able to manage the cost.
Read more →You're not meant to hold all of this by yourself.
Everything above gets you to a plan. What follows isn't a step you finish — browse whenever it's relevant, not in order.
Daily friction — routines, discipline, the days that don't go to plan.
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