Sensory play and early intervention keys in tackling developmental delays

Efforts to promote early intervention for developmental dyslexia and other neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are gaining momentum in Macau as parental awareness grows and demand for pediatric services increases.

However, experts and recent reports emphasize ongoing challenges in securing timely diagnosis and treatment.

Nair Cardoso, director of Saint Joseph International Nursery (CISJ), told the Times that while progress has been made at their nursery, significant obstacles remain throughout the sector.

NDDs – including intellectual disabilities, speech and language impairments, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – affect approximately 15% of children and adolescents worldwide, according to recent analyses.

Meanwhile, a 2022 systematic review by Yang et al. found that developmental dyslexia affects about 7.1% of children aged 6 to 13 globally.

These conditions often cause considerable difficulties in cognition, communication, and motor skills. Early intervention can be transformative, enabling many children to catch up with their peers.

Despite this, accessing government early treatment services in Macau remains a challenge.

Reports indicate that evaluation and enrollment wait times range from six months to a year, while private options are often too expensive for many families.

Cardoso voiced concern that some families delay seeking help for their children’s developmental challenges.

“Many families may still be unaware of how early signs of developmental delays can appear and might hesitate to seek help before their children turn three. However, emerging research shows that intervention can – and should – begin as early as 18 months,” she explained to the Times.

Emphasizing the need for greater collaboration in addressing developmental delays, she added, “In my opinion, pediatricians in Macau should take a more proactive approach by seeking referrals from teachers when necessary. Social welfare programs are providing valuable opportunities for nurseries to participate in courses and seminars to enhance their understanding and practices in early childhood development.”

Highlighting the importance of hands-on learning, the CISJ director also noted, “Active engagement through sensory exploration is foundational for young children, as it not only fosters cognitive development but also supports emotional well-being.”

Cardoso noted that restrictions on outdoor activities during the pandemic and increased screen time have compounded these challenges, depriving children of crucial sensory experiences essential for healthy brain development.

“Many children are missing out on essential sensory experiences during their early years. Passive exploration through devices and TVs can detract from hands-on activities that stimulate the senses,” she said.

“Sensory play helps build key neural pathways and promotes joyful learning and creativity. Engaging children in tactile activities leads to better developmental outcomes.”

She also pointed out that “outdoor restrictions have made both children and parents reluctant to engage in outdoor play,” further limiting important physical and sensory activity.

In response to these challenges, CISJ has partnered with social welfare programs to strengthen training for nursery staff, focusing on social-emotional development and special educational needs.

The nursery director concluded by highlighting the importance of a coordinated effort to guarantee that children receive timely support.

“I believe that fostering open communication and a collaborative approach among educators, healthcare professionals, and families is paramount in championing early intervention and promoting a positive developmental trajectory for young children.”