When it comes to childhood development, those early years are crucial for laying the foundation of a child’s future. In a recent conversation between Tara from Kindship and Ellen from the Stronger Together Foundation, the two discussed the importance of early childhood supports and how families can navigate the often overwhelming landscape of therapy, school transitions, and finding community. Ellen’s extensive experience in the field, spanning over 16 years, provides valuable insights for parents and caregivers on how to best support their children during those early, crucial years of development. Here’s a recap of their chat and some key takeaways on how families can approach these challenges.
The shift from “early intervention” to “early childhood supports”
Traditionally, the term “early intervention” was widely used in the realm of child development, particularly in supporting children with developmental delays or disabilities. However, as Ellen pointed out, the language is evolving:
“We don’t use ‘intervention’ as much anymore, as it implies we’re intervening or trying to change a child. The new terminology is ‘early childhood supports.’ It’s more about understanding and embracing the child’s unique strengths, rather than focusing on what needs to be ‘fixed.'”
This shift towards a neuro-affirming approach reflects a broader understanding of child development, focusing on empowering both the child and their family through support rather than intervention.
Why are the early years so important?
The early years of a child’s life are a time of rapid brain development, making it a critical period for learning, growth, and forming strong foundations for future development. Ellen emphasises the importance of early supports not only for the child but also for their family:
“It’s not just about supporting the child during those early years; it’s also about equipping the people around them—parents, siblings, and extended family—with the tools to help their child thrive. This sets everyone up for success.”
By providing children and their families with the right tools and supports, the positive impact can ripple through their entire lives. It’s not about changing the child but rather giving them the tools they need to navigate the world in a way that works best for them.
Overcoming the overwhelm: advice for families just starting out
Receiving a diagnosis for your child can be an incredibly overwhelming experience. From navigating NDIS paperwork to attending therapy appointments, parents are often juggling multiple responsibilities while trying to figure out what’s best for their child. Ellen advises parents to take a step back and slow down:
“It’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to do everything at once. You get a diagnosis and suddenly there’s a long list of therapies, paperwork, and recommendations. My advice is to slow down and find what works for your family.”
Each family’s journey is different, and what works for one child might not work for another. The key is to find a balance that doesn’t add stress to an already challenging situation. Whether that means reducing the number of therapy appointments or finding ways to incorporate support and strategies into everyday routines, the goal is to improve the quality of life for the whole family, not to add more pressure.
Transitioning to school: what families need to know
One of the most significant milestones for any child is starting school, but for children with additional support needs, this transition can feel even more daunting. Ellen shares some helpful tips to make the process smoother for both the child and the family:
- Be informed: Visit multiple schools and explore all options—both mainstream and specialised schools. Knowing your options will help you make an informed decision about what’s best for your child.
- Prepare for the transition: Ellen emphasises the importance of visiting the school with your child and creating “social stories” to familiarise them with the new environment. This helps ease anxiety and prepares the child for what to expect.
- Work closely with the school: Ensuring that the school is prepared to support your child is key. Ellen recommends open communication with teachers and staff, as well as involving external therapists in the transition process where possible. “Make sure the school is on board with your child’s needs and is open to external support coming in to assist,” she adds.
The importance of community connection
Social isolation can be a real challenge for families navigating a new diagnosis or developmental challenges. Finding a support network of other families who understand the journey can be invaluable. Ellen highlights the importance of this sense of community:
“Families need to find their village. Connecting with others who understand the highs and lows of the journey is so important for emotional support and well-being.”
At the Stronger Together Foundation, the focus isn’t just on the child but on the entire family unit. Through initiatives like family events, conferences, and support groups, families are given the opportunity to connect with others who are facing similar challenges. These connections can make all the difference in helping families navigate the rollercoaster of emotions that come with supporting a child with additional needs.
What’s next for the Stronger Together Foundation?
As the Stronger Together Foundation continues to grow and evolve, we remain committed to supporting families through various programs and events. Ellen shares that the Foundation recently rebranded and moved into a new space, allowing us to expand our services and reach even more families.
Looking ahead, we have several initiatives on the horizon, including our annual conference and family events that provide safe and inclusive environments for children with disabilities. One such event is our Siblings Program, which offers support to the often-overlooked siblings of children with disabilities, recognising the impact that a diagnosis can have on the entire family.
Conclusion
Supporting a child with developmental challenges is a journey, but it doesn’t have to be a lonely one. With the right early childhood supports in place, families can not only help their child thrive but also strengthen their own resilience along the way. By embracing a neuro-affirming approach, slowing down, and building a community of support, families can find the balance that works best for them.
As Ellen reminds us, “It’s not about doing everything perfectly. It’s about finding what works for your family and giving yourself permission to take a break when needed.”
If you’re looking for more information, visit our Services page or contact us to find out how we can support your family.
You can watch the replay of Ellen and Tara’s chat here:
