Quick answer. Children develop at different rates, but some skills (milestones) are expected by certain ages, and noticeable delays in speech, social interaction or movement are worth checking. In Singapore, raise concerns early with your polyclinic, GP or paediatrician, who can refer to a hospital Child Development Unit at KKH or NUH for assessment. Children assessed with developmental needs can access early intervention such as EIPIC, which is overseen by the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA).
Watching a child grow and learn is a journey, and every child develops at their own pace. Still, developmental milestones, the skills most children reach by certain ages, are a useful guide. When a child is significantly behind in talking, understanding, social interaction or movement, an early assessment can make a real difference, because support works best when it starts early. This guide explains milestones, speech delay, and Singapore’s assessment and early intervention pathways. It is general information and not a substitute for professional advice.
At a glance
| Age | Communication | Other skills |
|---|---|---|
| By 12 months | Babbles, responds to name, points | Sits, pulls to stand, simple gestures |
| By 18 months | Says a few single words, follows simple instructions | Walks, explores, feeds self messily |
| By 2 years | Uses two-word phrases, growing vocabulary | Runs, climbs, simple pretend play |
| By 3 years | Short sentences, mostly understood by family | Plays with others, manages stairs |
| By 4 years | Tells short stories, understood by strangers | Hops, draws simple shapes, dresses with help |
How children develop
Development covers several areas: movement (gross and fine motor), communication and language, thinking and learning (cognition), and social and emotional skills. Milestones are a guide rather than a strict test, and there is a normal range. What matters is the overall pattern: steady progress over time, and no loss of skills the child had already gained.
What is speech and language delay
Speech and language delay means a child has more difficulty than expected for their age with speaking (expressive language) or understanding (receptive language). Together with autism spectrum conditions, speech and language difficulties make up a large share of developmental concerns seen in preschoolers in Singapore. Some signs worth discussing with a doctor include:
- Not babbling or using gestures by around 12 months.
- Few or no single words by around 18 months.
- Not putting two words together by around 2 years.
- Speech that is very hard for the family to understand at 3 years.
- Loss of words or social skills the child previously had, at any age.
When to seek an assessment
If you have concerns about your child’s development, speaking up early is the most important step. Trust your observations and do not wait to see if a delay simply resolves. Start with your polyclinic doctor, GP or paediatrician, who can review your child and arrange referral if needed. Bring examples of what your child can and cannot do, and note any concerns raised by preschool teachers.
Assessment at KKH and NUH
In Singapore, more detailed developmental assessment is provided through public hospital Child Development Units (CDUs), such as those at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) and the National University Hospital (NUH). A polyclinic or doctor can refer your child there if a delay is suspected. The assessment looks across developmental areas, including hearing and vision, motor skills, language, thinking and social-emotional development, and produces an assessment report that guides the next steps.
Early intervention and EIPIC
The Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children (EIPIC) is Singapore’s main government-subsidised, centre-based early intervention service for children under 7 assessed with developmental needs. It provides structured therapy and learning support. Oversight of early intervention services sits with the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA). Referral to EIPIC usually follows a developmental assessment, and demand can mean waiting times, so starting the process early helps. Private early intervention and therapy options are also available.
Supporting development at home
While arranging assessment, you can encourage development through everyday interaction.
- Talk, sing and read together daily, naming objects and actions.
- Follow your child’s interest and give time to respond.
- Limit screen time and prioritise face-to-face play.
- Get your child’s hearing checked, as hearing problems can affect speech.
- Work with preschool teachers and therapists on shared goals.
What to expect at a developmental assessment
A developmental assessment is usually a gentle, play-based session rather than a test your child can pass or fail. The team may watch your child play, listen to how they communicate, check hearing and vision, and ask you detailed questions about everyday skills at home and in preschool. It often takes time and may involve more than one visit or several professionals, such as a doctor, psychologist, speech therapist or occupational therapist. The aim is to build a clear picture of your child’s strengths and needs, not to label them.
How to prepare for the visit
Bring your child’s health booklet and any preschool feedback, and jot down examples of what your child can and cannot do, including words they use, how they play, and how they respond to instructions. Note when you first had concerns. Try to schedule the appointment when your child is rested and not hungry, and bring a familiar comfort item, as children show their best in a relaxed setting.
Supporting your child while you wait
Waiting times for assessment or early intervention can be frustrating, but you can do a great deal in the meantime. Talk through daily routines, narrate what you are doing, read together, and follow your child’s lead in play. Reduce background screen time so there is more face-to-face interaction. If hearing has not been checked recently, ask about it, as undetected hearing problems can affect speech.
Common questions
Should I wait to see if my child catches up?
It is usually better to raise concerns early than to wait. If a delay turns out to be minor, you lose nothing by checking; if it is significant, early support tends to work best.
Does a speech delay mean my child has autism?
No. Speech delay has many causes, including hearing issues and being a late talker. An assessment helps tell these apart, so avoid assuming a diagnosis before your child has been seen.
Related guides
- Best Paediatric Clinics in Singapore — our editorial shortlist
- paediatric clinics directory
- Vaccination schedule
- Childhood fever
- Eczema and allergies
Sources
- ECDA – Early Intervention Services
- Enabling Guide – Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children (EIPIC)
- SupportGoWhere – EIPIC
- MOH – Childhood Developmental Screening
Related conditions & guides
Related conditions and guides you may find useful:
- ADHD in Children in Singapore
- Bedwetting in Children in Singapore
- Childhood Asthma in Singapore
- Childhood Constipation in Singapore
- Childhood Obesity in Singapore
- Common Childhood Rashes in Singapore
Part of our Children’s health guides · Browse all health topics