Navigating the world of support can feel overwhelming for parents of children with developmental delays or disabilities. The Early Childhood Approach, part of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), is designed to simplify this journey by offering tailored, family-centred support during the crucial early years.

At Bloom Healthcare, we understand the importance of early intervention in helping children reach their full potential. This guide explains the Early Childhood Approach, how it works, and how it supports families like yours.

The Early Childhood Approach is a framework within the NDIS designed for children aged 0–6 with developmental delays or disabilities. It aims to provide early support that builds skills, independence, and confidence for the child and their family and addresses concerns related to their development.

Research consistently shows that the first six years of life are critical for brain development. Early intervention during this window can significantly improve outcomes, helping children overcome challenges and achieve developmental milestones. Accessing early intervention support services quickly ensures optimal development and quality of life.

At Bloom Healthcare, we take a holistic approach to early childhood intervention, focusing on the child’s needs and the family’s well-being.

Who Is Eligible for the Early Childhood Approach?

The Early Childhood Approach is open to:

• Children younger than six years with a developmental delay that significantly impacts their ability to participate in everyday activities.
• Children with a diagnosed disability or developmental delay, such as autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, or Down syndrome.

Even if your child doesn’t meet the criteria for long-term NDIS funding, they may still access short-term early intervention supports through the Early Childhood Approach. Bloom Healthcare’s team can guide you through this process, ensuring your child receives the support they need.

How Does the Early Childhood Approach Work?

The Early Childhood Approach involves a collaborative process designed to meet the unique needs of your child and family. Here’s what to expect:

1. Initial Contact with an Early Childhood Partner: Early Childhood Partners are professionals who work with families to understand their child’s needs and provide recommendations. They may connect you with short-term support or guide you through applying for NDIS funding if needed.
2. Assessment and Goal Setting: The Early Childhood Partner assesses your child’s strengths, challenges, and developmental goals through conversations and observations.
3. Developing an Individual Plan: A tailored plan is created if your child is eligible for NDIS funding. This plan outlines the support and services your child will receive to address their developmental needs.
4. Accessing Therapy and Support: Depending on your child’s needs, support services may include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and other interventions.
5. Regular Reviews and Adjustments: The plan is reviewed regularly to align with your child’s progress and evolving needs.

How Does the Early Childhood Approach Support Families?

One of the defining features of the Early Childhood Approach is its focus on the whole family. At Bloom Healthcare, we believe parents and caregivers are key partners in a child’s developmental journey. Supports for families include:

• Education and Training: Empowering parents with strategies to support their child’s development at home.
• Emotional Support: Providing counselling or connecting families with support networks.
• Practical Guidance: Offering advice on navigating the NDIS, accessing resources, and advocating for your child’s needs.
• Child Health Nurse: Coordinating with child health nurses to ensure appropriate care and early intervention for children under six.

The Early Childhood Approach involves families throughout the process and ensures that children receive consistent, meaningful support in all areas of their lives. Early connections help families access tailored early intervention services and promote learning at home, focusing on practical professional guidance to meet individual needs.

Key Services Provided by Early Childhood Partners Under the Early Childhood Approach

The Early Childhood Approach provides access to a wide range of services, including:

• Occupational Therapy: Helping children develop skills for everyday tasks, such as dressing, eating, and playing.
• Speech Pathology: Supporting communication, language, and feeding skills.
• Physiotherapy: Improving physical strength, coordination, and mobility.
• Psychology: Addressing emotional and behavioural challenges.
• Play-Based Therapy: Using play to build social, cognitive, and motor skills.
• Early Childhood Educator: Collaborating with families and health professionals to assess development and guide access to early intervention services.

At Bloom Healthcare, our multidisciplinary team offers these services in a way that is tailored to each child’s unique needs. Our early childhood approach aims to provide necessary resources for children and their families, ensuring a strong foundation for learning and growth.

Working with an Early Childhood Partner

Working with an Early Childhood Partner is crucial to accessing the NDIS’s Early Childhood Approach. An Early Childhood Partner is a local organisation funded by the NDIS that delivers the Approach. They are dedicated to understanding your child’s unique needs and connecting you to your community’s proper support and services.

When you engage with an Early Childhood Partner, you can expect a comprehensive and personalised approach to your child’s development. Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Child Development Specialist: An Early Childhood Partner will assign a child development specialist to work closely with you. This specialist will take the time to understand your child’s strengths, challenges, and developmental goals. Together, you’ll develop a tailored plan to support your child’s growth and progress.
• Access to a Range of Supports: Early Childhood Partners provide access to various early intervention services, including therapy and behaviour support. These services are designed to address specific developmental concerns and help your child build essential skills.
• Connection to Mainstream and Community Services: Besides specialised support, Early Childhood Partners can help you connect with mainstream and community services such as childcare, kindergarten, and school. This ensures that your child receives consistent support across different environments.
• Navigating the NDIS: Understanding and accessing the NDIS can be overwhelming. Early Childhood Partners are there to guide you through the process, from determining eligibility to accessing funding for your child’s support. They will help you navigate the system and ensure you receive the resources your child needs.

Working with an Early Childhood Partner ensures your child receives the support they need to reach their full potential. The collaborative approach of the NDIS Early Childhood Approach, combined with the expertise of Early Childhood Partners, provides a strong foundation for your child’s development and well-being.

How to Access the Early Childhood Approach

Accessing the Early Childhood Approach starts with contacting an Early Childhood Partner through the NDIS. They will guide you through the steps, including:

1. Discussing Concerns: Share your observations and concerns about your child’s development.
2. Receiving Recommendations: Based on their assessment, the Early Childhood Partner will suggest the following steps, including short-term support, early intervention support services, or applying for NDIS funding.
3. Developing a Plan: Your child will receive an NDIS plan outlining funded supports if eligible.

At Bloom Healthcare, we can assist you at every stage of this process, from understanding eligibility to implementing your child’s plan.

The Benefits of the Early Childhood Approach

The Early Childhood Approach is transformative for both children and families. Benefits include:

• Enhanced Development: Early intervention supports your child in building essential skills.
• Improved Family Well-Being: Parents and carers gain confidence, knowledge, and tools to support their children.
• Smoother Transitions: Whether it’s starting school or engaging in community activities, early supports prepare children for key milestones.

Our team at Bloom Healthcare is passionate about helping children and families experience these benefits and ensuring every child can thrive.

When Should You Seek Early Intervention for Developmental Delay?

If you notice delays in your child’s development—such as challenges with speech, movement, or social interaction—it’s never too early to seek support. Common signs include:

• Difficulty meeting developmental milestones (e.g., walking, talking).
• Struggles with social engagement or sensory processing.
• Challenges in adapting to new environments or routines.

Early intervention can make a significant difference, and our team at Bloom Healthcare is here to help you take the first step.

The Early Childhood Approach is more than just a support system—it’s a partnership between families, professionals, and the NDIS to create opportunities for children to thrive. By focusing on early intervention and family-centred care, this approach sets the foundation for lifelong learning, growth, and independence.

At Bloom Healthcare, we are committed to supporting children and their families through every stage of this journey. Whether you’re just beginning to explore the Early Childhood Approach or looking for expert therapies, our team is here to guide you with compassion and expertise.

Our early childhood approach aims to provide necessary resources for children and their families and integrate them into their communities and everyday settings. This evidence-based approach ensures a strong foundation for learning and growth.