On May 31, Tra Vinh University’s Laboratory School, in collaboration with the Vietnam Developmental Disabilities Network (VDDN) in Ho Chi Minh City, held a symposium to raise community awareness about early detection and intervention for children with developmental disorders.
The academic event provided a platform for sharing experiences and improving support services for these children. The symposium included leading experts and organizations from across Vietnam, including Mr. Tran Van Duong, VDDN President and founder of the ATC Center system in Ho Chi Minh City; Mr. Phan Xuan Thong, Edunow Director and Vice President of VDDN; Ms. Nguyen Thi Thu Huyen, Director of An Binh Center and Head of VDDN’s Professional Committee; Ms. Vo Thi Hoang, Director of Ban Mai Xanh Center; Ms. Huynh Thi Truc Ly, Deputy Director of ATC-Thien Minh Center; and Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh Lan, Deputy Director of ATC-Thien Tam Center in Ho Chi Minh City. Over 200 participants attended, including teachers, parents, and students from Tra Vinh University’s Early Childhood Education, Psychology, and related fields.
Mr. Tran Van Duong emphasized the symposium’s role in sharing effective solutions for early detection and intervention, particularly for children with autism spectrum disorder.
The program also included on-site psychological screenings for 16 children showing developmental delays, providing parents with immediate access to expert advice.
Ms. Vo Thi Hoang highlighted challenges in early detection and intervention, citing limited community awareness, insufficient specialized resources, and a lack of coordinated efforts among families, schools, and specialized centers.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Thu Huyen presented on early detection and intervention for autism spectrum disorder, emphasizing early warning signs like delayed language development, lack of eye contact, and social interaction difficulties. She stressed the importance of multidisciplinary assessment and ongoing collaboration between families and professionals.
Mr. Phan Xuan Thong shared methods for developing communication skills, focusing on child-centered approaches and techniques to improve expression and social interaction.
Dr. Cao Thi Hong Cam, Director of Victory Foreign Language and Computer Center, presented a model for an integrated early intervention center in Tra Vinh province, combining education, healthcare, and family involvement. She highlighted personalized intervention plans and inter-sectoral collaboration to create a sustainable support ecosystem for children with special needs.
The symposium reflects Tra Vinh University’s commitment to creating an inclusive and socially responsible learning environment, promoting shared responsibility and practical action to improve the lives and opportunities for children with special needs.
