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Highlights
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- Accepts children aged two years and above, and adults up to age 20
- Variety of programmes to address specific developmental need
- Child Headstart Programme, EIP, Educational and Occupational Therapy, and more
- Pre-vocational training
- Safe and inclusive environment with trained teachers
- Parental support through trainings and workshops
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Established in October 2022, Hi 5 SEN Care Centre, Balakong is a holistic special needs education centre that offers quality programmes that cater to students aged two to 20 years old.
Occupying two floors within a commercial shop lot, the centre is led by founder Ms. Qistine Loh, who has over a decade of experience in Special Needs Education (SEN) and a master’s degree in SEN from the University of South Wales, UK.
Comprehensive programmes for varied needs
Hi 5 Sen Care Centre accepts children from age two and adults up to age 20 from a variety of backgrounds, including those with autism, hyperactivity, speech delays, and learning difficulties.
The centre’s innovative approach combines therapy and academic support, designed to cater to the developmental stages and needs of each individual. “We group our students by function—low or high functioning, verbal or non-verbal, as well as mobility considerations,” Ms. Loh explains.
The centre’s programmes are structured to accommodate various levels of functioning, with morning sessions for lower-functioning children and afternoon sessions for higher-functioning ones. Their programmes include:
Child Headstart Programme (Ages 2-6)
The Child Headstart Programme is divided into two stages to help build strong foundations for young children with physical, speech, sensory, and social communication difficulties.
The first stage focuses on individual table tasks, physical activities, and sensory integration. This stage is aimed at children who are starting with minimal knowledge and require more intense therapy.
Stage two emphasises group activities and will help children develop social skills. Key activities include circle time, thematic learning, fine motor skills development, and more.
Early Intervention Programme (EIP) (Ages 2 - 6)
This programme provides comprehensive support for children facing academic, social, and speech development challenges. Each child undergoes their own Individual Educational Plan (IEP) to help them with their development delays and learning difficulties. Activities involve literacy introduction, arts and crafts, dance, and group therapy sessions.
Educational Therapy (ET)
Educational Therapy offers holistic support for behaviour management, academic delays, attention, and compliance issues. It usually precedes speech and language introduction. “Some children may have problems communicating so parents may think to enrol them for speech therapy, but it is often their behaviour that hinders communication. We address behavioural issues first, before language,” Ms. Loh explains.
Occupational Therapy (OT)
Occupational Therapy is an intensive, one-to-one programme designed to enhance fine and gross motor skills, cognition, language, and sensory development. Tailored exercises and activities help children develop critical skills needed for everyday life.
Junior School Readiness Programme (Ages 5-10)
This program is designed to prepare children for standard school settings by developing essential academic and social skills. The curriculum includes subjects like Malay, English, and Mathematics, and also instils social skills through excursions and group activities. The goal is to integrate children back into mainstream schooling.
Pre-Vocational Programme (Ages 10-20)
For older children with limited academic capabilities, this programme focuses on helping students gain independence by enhancing their practical life skills and vocational training. Some of the skills taught include using public transportation, computer skills, shopping, and basic first aid.
Social Group Programme (SGP)
This small group setting helps children learn to interact and play appropriately with peers, focusing on social-emotional skills, conversational abilities, and problem-solving. The programme is conducted in small groups of two to three children, and teaches them aspects such as discipline, anger management, and social behaviour.
After School Programme
For children attending regular or special schools, this programme offers after-school care and homework or subject guidance according to their respective learning abilities.
Aside from therapy and academic classes, older students regularly participate in non-academic activities as well, such as swimming, sports, and social outings, to help with their social-emotional development and expose them to real-world experiences.
Safe and inclusive learning environment
Safety is of the utmost priority at Hi 5 Sen Care Centre, reflected in its design and facilities. The upper floor houses classrooms and doubles as a training area for parents and teachers, while the lower floor features sensory-friendly spaces equipped with air purifiers and medical-grade essential oil diffusers to create a relaxing ambience.
There is also an indoor gym area that is padded to reduce impact injury and equipped with a climbing wall and monkey bars. Doorknobs are installed at above average height. Classes are also conducted in small groups of seven students to two teachers and an assistant.
Hi 5 Sen Care Centre offers robust parental support, including free workshops on SEN, behaviour management, and other relevant topics. “We provide comprehensive support for parents, including free training for those whose children are in our therapy programmes, which is something usually charged for in some other centres,” highlights Ms. Loh.
As a centre licensed by the Department of Social Welfare Malaysia (JKM), the centre also assists families with sponsorships and government aid.
Conclusion
Hi 5 Sen Care Centre is an exemplary choice for parents who seek a nurturing, expert-led special needs education centre. Its array of tailored programmes, dedicated staff, and a strong commitment to the well-being and development of each child ensures they can reach their full potential in a safe and stimulating environment.
