Early Childhood Approach and the NDIS - Supporting Children Under 9

Early Childhood Approach and the NDIS: Supporting Children Under 9

The early years of a child’s life are fundamentally important, laying the groundwork for their future development and well-being. Understanding the supports available through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) during this crucial period is vital for families. From July 1, 2023, a significant change was implemented, extending the Early Childhood Approach to include children younger than 9 years old. This blog post will guide you through this approach and how it can benefit your child and family. See our complete global-developmental-delay-gdd-ndis-early-childhood-approach-explained guide

The Early Childhood Approach within the NDIS is designed to provide early intervention for children under 9 who have a disability or developmental delay. For children under 6, a formal diagnosis is not always necessary; concerns about development are enough to trigger access to support. The aim is to offer timely and appropriate assistance, empowering children and their families and maximizing opportunities for growth and inclusion in everyday life. This family-centered and strengths-based approach acknowledges that parents and carers are the experts on their children, and their insights are central to planning and support.

Key NDIS Considerations for Children Under 9

Navigating the NDIS can seem daunting, especially when focusing on your child’s needs. Here are key considerations to keep in mind:

• Eligibility: The Early Childhood Approach focuses on children up to 9 years of age. Children under 6 with developmental delays or concerns don't require a formal diagnosis to access support. For children between 6 and 9, a disability diagnosis is usually required. The NDIS assesses eligibility based on the impact of the disability or developmental delay on the child’s functional capacity in areas such as communication, social interaction, learning, mobility, and self-care.

• Family-Centred Approach: The NDIS emphasizes a family-centered approach, meaning that your family's goals, values, and priorities are central to the planning process. As parents or carers, your knowledge of your child is highly valued.

• Strengths-Based Approach: The NDIS focuses on your child's strengths and abilities, rather than solely on their challenges. This positive approach aims to build confidence and promote independence.

• Early Childhood Partners: The NDIA funds local organizations called Early Childhood Partners to deliver the Early Childhood Approach. These partners work with families to understand their child's needs, connect them with mainstream and community supports, and determine if NDIS funding is necessary. They can offer information, referrals, and short-term early intervention supports.

• The NDIS Plan: If your child is eligible for NDIS funding, they will receive an individual Plan. This Plan outlines the supports that will be funded to help your child achieve their goals. Supports are generally categorized into three areas:

  • Core Supports: These supports assist with daily living activities and help your child participate in the community. Examples include assistance with personal care, therapy assistants, and consumables.
  • Capacity Building Supports: These supports help build your child's skills and independence over time. This can include therapeutic interventions (e.g., speech therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, psychology), early intervention programs, and support for parents and carers.
  • Capital Supports: These supports include assistive technology and home modifications that enable your child to live more independently.

• Mainstream and Community Supports: The NDIS prioritizes the use of mainstream and community services wherever possible. This means that before NDIS funding is considered, your child will be connected to supports available in the broader community, such as childcare, playgroups, and healthcare services.

Practical Steps to Accessing the Early Childhood Approach

Here's a step-by-step guide to accessing the Early Childhood Approach:

1. Identify Concerns: If you have concerns about your child's development, talk to your GP, paediatrician, or child health nurse. They can provide initial advice and referrals.

2. Contact an Early Childhood Partner: Find your local Early Childhood Partner through the NDIS website. They will discuss your concerns and help you navigate the NDIS process.

3. Gather Information: Collect relevant information about your child's development, including medical reports, therapy assessments, and observations from educators or carers.

4. Attend a Planning Meeting: If your child is eligible for NDIS funding, you will attend a planning meeting with an NDIS planner or Early Childhood Partner. During this meeting, you will discuss your child's goals, needs, and the supports that will be included in their Plan.

5. Implement the Plan: Once your child's Plan is approved, you can start accessing the funded supports. You have choice and control over who provides these supports.

6. Review the Plan: Your child's NDIS Plan will be reviewed periodically (usually every 12 months) to ensure that it continues to meet their needs. You can request a review at any time if your child's circumstances change.

Tips for Maximizing the Benefits of the Early Childhood Approach:

• Be an Active Participant: As the expert on your child, actively participate in all stages of the NDIS process. Share your knowledge, voice your concerns, and advocate for your child's needs.
• Set Realistic Goals: Work with your child's therapists and support team to set realistic and achievable goals. Celebrate small successes along the way.
• Connect with Other Families: Joining support groups or online forums can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice. Sharing experiences with other families who have children with disabilities can reduce feelings of isolation and empower you to navigate the NDIS.
• Utilize All Available Supports: Explore all available supports, including mainstream services, community programs, and NDIS-funded supports. A holistic approach can help your child reach their full potential.
• Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your child's development, therapy sessions, and NDIS-related correspondence. This documentation will be helpful when reviewing your child's Plan and advocating for their needs.
• Consider Support Coordination: If navigating the NDIS is proving challenging, consider including Support Coordination in your child’s plan. A Support Coordinator can help you connect with providers, manage your child's Plan, and advocate for their needs.
• Understand Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights as an NDIS participant. If you are unhappy with a decision made by the NDIA, you have the right to appeal.

Conclusion

The NDIS Early Childhood Approach offers valuable support for children under 9 with disabilities or developmental delays. By understanding the key considerations, following the practical steps, and actively participating in the process, you can empower your child to reach their full potential. Remember that you are not alone – Early Childhood Partners, therapists, and other families are there to support you on this journey. Early intervention is crucial, and the NDIS provides a framework to ensure children receive the right support at the right time, fostering a brighter future for them and their families. The NDIA is continually working to improve the Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) approach, so stay informed about the latest updates and how they might impact your child's support.