When Neha Vatsal Parikh welcomed her second child in 2017, she stepped away from her HR role in corporate world to prioritise her children’s early years. What began as a pause became a five-year career break.
As her children grew up and settled into school, Neha felt ready for a new chapter. Instead of returning immediately into a full-time corporate role, she chose to pursue her long-held dream of working with children, while still keeping family at the heart of her life.
Volunteering opened that door.
Following her dreams
“I have always wanted to work with children, but without experience or certification in early childhood education, I knew it would be difficult,” Neha said. “I felt that volunteering would allow me to gain experience working with children and understand the sector better.”
In 2022, she came across a volunteering opportunity at SPD@Bedok Early Intervention Centre and began supporting the centre three times a week.
“I remember my first day at SPD. I was in awe of how dedicated the teachers were, and how willing they were to share their knowledge and tips. They also knew the children so well,” Neha recalled.
Inspired by their passion, she continued volunteering for the next two years. The centre manager at the time subsequently encouraged her to consider becoming a teacher-aide.
Growing into a new role
Neha took up the role in February 2024.
“The transition into the role was really smooth, as I had already built relationships with the children at the centre,” she said.
She remembers the first time a child made eye contact with her after months of intervention. The moment touched her deeply because she finally understood what the child was trying to tell her.
A supportive circle of teachers and fellow teacher-aides helped Neha settle into and grow in her role. Regular check-ins with the teachers gave her the space to reflect, learn and improve.
She has since taken on more responsibilities, including making props for Storytime routine.
More than four years after joining SPD, Neha feels she has gained far more than she has given.
Taking the leap towards meaningful work
Reflecting on her journey from the corporate world to early intervention, Neha has words of encouragement for anyone considering volunteering or a career change.
“The biggest thing is to have faith in yourself and take that first leap – in your mind, and then through your actions,” Neha shared. “If you find the spark, just go for it. Trust and work together with your team as one. You can do it!”
“I have never felt weary or burnout. I know working with children with developmental needs is not for everyone, but I felt a calling. I am glad I followed my dreams and even more thankful for such a supportive team,” she reflected.
Today, she brings that purpose to every part of her work – from brainstorming and crafting props for the Storytime routine to sharing quiet moments of connection with the children in her care.