Early Childhood Supports

Early Childhood Supports play a crucial role in empowering young children with disabilities by providing them with the necessary support to develop essential skills and thrive in their environment. These services focus on supporting the developmental needs of children under the age of 7 who have a diagnosed disability, helping them reach their full potential as they grow and learn.

NDIS Coverage and Flexibility

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) offers Early Childhood Supports to assist families with children who require support at an early stage. These services are designed to help children develop key skills and participate in everyday activities. Early Childhood Supports can be flexible, meaning they can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each child and their family, depending on the child’s disability support requirements and individual goals.

Funding Source and Category

Early Childhood Supports are funded under the NDIS Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) approach. This approach is part of the NDIS’s “Supports for Participants” category and is aimed at providing tailored support services for children and families. The funding focuses on developing skills in areas such as communication, physical mobility, social skills, and emotional regulation, which are critical in the early stages of life.

Types of Early Childhood Supports

The NDIS Early Childhood Supports include a wide range of services, such as:

• Therapeutic Supports: These are professional services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy, aimed at improving the child’s functional abilities.
• Developmental Milestone Assistance: Helping children reach key developmental milestones, including fine motor skills, social interactions, and cognitive development.
• Parent Training and Support: Assisting parents and caregivers with strategies and techniques to help them support their child’s development.
• Early Intervention Programs: Programs designed to provide early support for children with disabilities to improve their long-term outcomes.

Distinguishing Early Childhood Supports from Other Services

It is important to differentiate Early Childhood Supports from other types of support services. Unlike general child care or schooling, Early Childhood Supports are specifically designed to address the developmental challenges associated with a child’s disability. The NDIS provides these supports to help children achieve their personal goals and improve their ability to participate in family, social, and community life.

Medium-Term Supports for Ongoing Development

In some cases, medium-term interventions may be required to continue the progress initiated in early childhood. These supports may focus on further skill development and readiness for school, with a goal of maximizing independence and participation. MTA services can be crucial as children transition from early childhood into formal schooling.

When Early Childhood Supports May Not Be Funded

While the NDIS offers funding for Early Childhood Supports, there are instances when this funding may not be available. These include:

• Services related to general child care that are not specific to the child’s disability needs.
• Educational or school-based supports which are the responsibility of educational institutions.
• Supports for general well-being or services not related to the child’s disability needs, such as private family therapy or recreational activities.

Securing Early Childhood Supports in Your NDIS Plan

Early Childhood Supports may not always be automatically included in your NDIS plan. However, families can work with an NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to identify if these services are appropriate for their child’s needs. It is essential to ensure that the NDIS plan aligns with the child’s specific goals, and adjustments can be made to include Early Childhood Supports if necessary.

Get in Touch with Approach Care for NDIS Early Childhood Supports

If you’re seeking NDIS support services for your child in Western Australia, Approach Care is here to assist. As a registered NDIS service provider, we offer high-quality Early Childhood Supports to enhance your child’s development. Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing personalized services aimed at improving the lives of children with disabilities, supporting families, and helping children thrive in their daily activities.

Reach out to Approach Care today to learn more about how we can assist you with NDIS Early Childhood Supports and other services designed to empower your child and family.