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Caring SG commuters
In The Spotlight

Photo Story: Journey of Esther and Sean

27 September 2022

From the point of view of Esther, caregiver of a person with autism, Sean, on travelling on public transport.

This article has been migrated from an earlier version of the site and may display formatting inconsistencies.

This is a contribution piece by Mr Calvin Eng from The Birthday Collective based on the interviews done with the families. The quotes, opinions and images in this article are attributed to the author and the families. It does not represent the views of Caring SG Commuters.

On Singapore's public transport system…

Esther and Sean travelling on the MRT

Esther and Sean travelling on the MRT Source: Larry Toh

Singapore’s transport system is very well established. The MRT system may be easier for an individual with autism as there are announcements made at every approaching station stop, I have taught Sean to listen to these announcements. My wish is that all our bus systems can announce the approaching stops as well. Currently, I will teach Sean to look out for various landmarks before pressing the bell to alight.
— Esther

On the challenges of taking public transport…

Esther and Sean seated in a MRT carriage

Esther and Sean travelling on the MRT Source: Larry Toh

Travelling in a very packed public transport requires a lot of courage from a caregiver. I do not know what may happen next. What could trigger my child? What may trigger the public? I have to be constantly alert, and plan ahead on the actions needed when something happens… Do I continue with the journey? Do I alight at the next stop to calm my child?
— Esther
Backview of Esther and Sean at the MRT station

Esther and Sean at the MRT station Source: Larry Toh

How might Sean be able to ask for help at the MRT stations or bus interchanges when he gets lost and forgets how to go to his destination? How might we best equip our communities to support individuals with special needs in times of need?
— Esther

On how people with autism can travel on public transport independently…

Esther and Sean travelling on a public bus.

Esther and Sean travelling on a public bus. Source: Larry Toh

I am glad that I have trained Sean on the Dos and Don’ts of taking public transportation. Though the start was tough, with consistency, we achieved bit by bit.
— Esther
Esther and Sean walk hand in hand through a bus interchange.

Esther and Sean walking through a bus interchange. Source: Larry Toh

With a child with autism, lifelong learning and guidance is required for us and our child. We must do whatever we can to assist him in achieving independence. One aspect is for him to travel independently to school or to the workplace in the future.
— Esther
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