Individual Support for Children with Special Needs

Your child is unique and deserves the support of an experienced speech pathologist, occupational therapist or child psychologist who is an expert in helping special needs kids meet their full potential.

At Kids First, we specialise in providing evidence-based speech therapy, occupational therapy and psychology services that are tailored to meet your child’s specific needs.

An added advantage of Kids First’s multi-disciplinary model is the support your child will receive from a unified team of specialists, who offer a comprehensive range of therapy options in one conveniently located centre.

My child needs therapy…what happens first?

Before we meet your child, we make an appointment for you to have a confidential and candid discussion with the health professional that will support your child.

This 30-60 minute consultation gives you a private opportunity to discuss your child’s needs and enables our expert to talk with you about your family’s concerns, challenges and goals.

This process is part of Kids First’s commitment to Best Practice and is based on current studies into paediatric service delivery. These indicate that better therapy outcomes are achieved when the therapist has a sound understanding of your child’s needs and the most appropriate assessment or treatment plan is devised and agreed upon prior to your child’s first experience of therapy.

What’s the next step?

Your child’s health professional will advise you if an assessment that identifies your child’s clinical needs is recommended prior to the commencement of individual therapy.

An assessment involves:

• Formal, standardised evaluation of your child’s skills and abilities using internationally acknowledged testing resources
• Professional analysis of results
• A formal written report that comprehensively details results and contains recommendations for your child’s on-going learning and development. This report could offer important insights to schools, pre-schools, doctors and other health professionals.

Therapy and Intervention

How long are therapy sessions?

Most children visit Kids First once a week for their chosen therapies. Sessions are usually 45 minutes long, however you and your child’s therapist will determine whether 60 minute or 30 minute sessions are more beneficial for your child.

Does my child’s therapist have Special Needs experience?

Yes. At Kids First, your child will receive therapy from a university educated professional who has extensive experience in the support of children with additional needs. Kids First’s health team members are committed to making therapy fun and engaging for your child and will work in partnership with you and your family. Learn more about our team click here

Can I attend my child’s therapy sessions?

We value your role as a parent and embrace opportunities to empower you with knowledge that supports your child.  Kids First’s therapists welcome your active involvement in your child’s therapy sessions. Your attendance at therapy will help you to learn about effective strategies and help you to become an informed advocate for your child at pre-school, school and in the wider community.

What can we do at home?

Your child’s therapist may occasionally recommend activities for your child to practice at home.  Your consistent support for these activities will enhance your child’s learning and development and make weekly therapy even more effective.

Approved Health Funds