Teachers are the very people we look up to – who shape our future and minds with knowledge and compassion. They teach, guide and inspire us to see the world and chase our dreams. Singapore began a week-long school break by celebrating Teachers’ Day on 30 August. This year, we celebrate the passion and dedication of teacher Ismawati Bin Selamat, a teacher under the Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children (EIPIC) at SPD Ability Centre.

Ten years in the profession, Ismawati, affectionately known as Isma to her family, friends and colleagues, knew she wanted to be a teacher at a very young age. Her cousin was born when she was 12 years old and watching her grow up sparked her interest in teaching children.

UPDATES caught up with Isma to learn of her teaching journey and her hopes for children with developmental needs in Singapore.

UPDATES: Why did you decide to join the social service sector?

Isma: Prior to joining SPD, I was working in a typical mainstream pre-school setting. I noticed a growing number of students who required additional support, yet my colleagues and I were not equipped with the skills to support the child in the most appropriate or suitable way. This realisation led me to join SPD, where I could make a difference to the lives of children who need it more. I am currently taking the Specialist Diploma in Early Childhood Intervention (Special Needs) SDSN to become a qualified special needs teacher.

UPDATES: Were there any challenges that you faced when you made the transition?

Isma: The first few weeks were challenging. SPD has teaching resources that were different from the ones I was used to in my previous pre-schools. With the guidance from my seniors, I managed to settle in quickly. I am glad that my fellow teachers and therapists are supportive, and I never felt alone on this journey.  The parents and caregivers were also very receptive to feedback, and this collaborative approach had helped me adapt to new methods and strategies of ensuring that our young clients receive the best possible support.

UPDATES: What is the most rewarding part about your job? Can you share any memorable moments in your career?

Isma: The most rewarding aspect of my job is witnessing the progress of our young clients. I remember there was a child who struggled to socialise with her peers. Her parents were worried that she was being ostracised. We found out that she did not fully understand how games such as tag are played. With patience, I explained to her how other children felt and simplified the rules for her. It took some time but the transformation was remarkable. She started to teach her friends and younger children how to play games such as “What time is it, Mr Wolf”. Her parents were surprised and overjoyed by her improvement. Now, she is making new friends and even has playdates at home.

UPDATES: As an early intervention teacher, what would you like parents to be aware or know more of?

Isma: I would want parents to know that they play a huge role in their child’s development. At SPD’s early intervention centres, each child is supported by a really strong transdisciplinary team. This group consists of the psychologist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, physiotherapist, teacher and even the parents. Our therapists are actively involved in the classrooms, observing the children and supporting them in their daily routines such as snack time and toileting.

We invite parents to openly and regularly update us on how their child is doing at home and in the community such as the pre-school. In this way, we know whether the strategies are working, and applied at home and in the community.

At SPD, we update the parents on their child’s development regularly, and also discuss the child’s current performance and upcoming goals at parents-teachers conferences that take place every six months. This holistic approach ensures that every child receives comprehensive support, both in our EIPIC classrooms and at home.

UPDATES: What are your goals for the future?

Isma: Since I joined SPD almost two years back, my time at SPD has been extremely rewarding. It is very different from my previous teaching roles, and I am constantly learning new skills every day. If the opportunity arises for me to expand my horizon and teach at other centres, I believe the skills I am gaining here will be incredibly beneficial. My ultimate goal is to support and nurture as many children as possible.

UPDATES: Do you have any advice for future educators?

Isma: I would encourage them to enjoy the journey along the way. It can be tempting to focus on milestones that the child needs to achieve, but it is also important to be in the moment with the children. They grow up very quickly and it’s the little moments that are the most touching and memorable for me! It is also important to be adaptable and flexible, as you might need to tailor your teaching plan based on the child’s needs last minute.

A Tribute to a Dedicated Teacher

Known as a patient and kind teacher to her students, Isma’s story is a testament to the profound impact that educators can have on young lives. “Teacher Isma is always going above and beyond her duty of care for my child,” complimented Ms Vivian Tham, mother of Sage. Her dedication, compassion, and willingness to embrace change have made her a cherished figure in the field of early intervention.