Early Stimulation Key to Optimal Development for Children with Special Needs

The Ministry of Population and Family Development (Kemendukbangga/BKKBN) has stated that early stimulation is the key to optimal growth and development for children with special needs. Deputy for Family Welfare and Empowerment Nopian Andusti conveyed this during the ‘Kelas Orang Tua Hebat’ (Great Parents Class), part of the Tamasya (Taman Asuh Sayang Anak) programme. “Our task is not merely to accept the existence of children with special needs, but also to ensure they receive the same rights to grow, learn, play, and develop. Building an inclusive world begins at home, through acceptance, support, and belief in every child’s potential,” he said in an official statement in Jakarta on Tuesday. Through this parenting class, the ministry continues to strengthen family capacity to support child development, equipping participants with knowledge and skills for responsive caregiving, including for children with special needs. Meanwhile, Fitri Hartanto, Head of the Social Paediatrics Growth and Development Coordination Unit at the Indonesian Paediatric Society (IDAI), explained the critical importance of the first 1,000 days of life as a highly decisive period for a child’s development. During this period, brain growth occurs rapidly and requires appropriate and continuous stimulation. She noted that the first two years of life are a critical phase that must be optimised, and that stimulation does not need to be complicated. “Simple interactions such as talking to the child, providing opportunities for exploration, teaching correct behaviour, and giving appreciation when the child succeeds are small steps that can have a significant impact on growth and development,” she explained. She further outlined that services for children with disabilities are carried out in three stages. The first is early prevention, ensuring basic needs are met through good parenting, affection, developmental stimulation, and maintaining maternal health during pregnancy and childbirth, along with genetic consultation if needed. The second stage involves reducing the impact of existing disorders by detecting and addressing developmental delays or bodily function impairments early, to prevent them from becoming permanent or developing into more severe disabilities. The third stage focuses on preventing conditions from worsening, through appropriate assistance, therapy, and support so that children can remain active, learn, and participate optimally in daily life.