Psychology

The psychologists provide support for teachers and parents in the management of challenging behaviours that can impede a child's learning.

Before a behavioural intervention is carried out, the psychologists need to gather information from individuals who are involved directly with the child. An observation is then made of the child in the school setting, and sometimes in the child's home, depending on the need.

The psychologists may be involved in the intervention directly, but the eventual goal is to train the teachers or caregivers in the management of the child.

Another area of involvement is in the remediation of skills, where a formal or informal assessment is carried out on the child. The information obtained from the assessment, together with other pertinent information gathered about the child from the parent or teacher, is then used to evaluate the child's learning potential. In some cases, these children may be referred to an appropriate educational or vocational setting.

Psychological Services in Rainbow Centre
Assessments and Screening - Psychological Evaluations and Assessments are conducted for children for purposes of referrals for placement at other agencies upon graduation from Rainbow Centre. As a member of the Multidisciplinary Screening team, new referrals of children to Rainbow Centre are evaluated for purposes of appropriate class placement, and referral for Diagnostic reviews.

Class consultation for Students and consultation for Teachers - Students are evaluated and monitored in the classroom for purpose of addressing behavioral concerns / learning related concerns. Necessary skills are imparted to teachers to address the above needs of these students, in consultation with psychologists.

Consultation services for Parents and Caregivers - Consultations are provided for caregivers and teachers on behavioral issues (e.g. separation anxiety, aggression towards self and others), work habits, learning difficulties, sleeping issues and toilet training.

Training - Psychologists are involved in training for staff and parents on a variety of topics (e.g. Principles of TEACCH and its application for students in the STEP programme, understanding child's behaviour, understanding child's development and learning skills, Social skills, Play skills and Toilet Training).