Stronger Seeds, Taller Trees Archives | Page 7 of 7

12 August 2021

When parents and carers have concerns about their child’s development, their GP may connect them to a range of mainstream services and refer them to an Early Childhood Partner.

The Early Childhood Approach supports children 0 to 6 with developmental delay or disability. Qualified professionals build the skills and knowledge of families and other people in the child’s life to support them to learn new skills, participate in everyday activities and be included in mainstream environments.

When children need longer term supports, the partner will support families to access the NDIS.

Children with developmental delays or concerns do not need a diagnosis to be referred to the Early Childhood Approach.

EACH is the Early Childhood Partner in South West Sydney.

Find your local Early Childhood Partner

Information for GPs

The Early Childhood Approach Guidelines

Best Practice in Early Intervention Parent Handout

EACH Phone referrals: 1300 003 224

EACH Referral Form

Send referral form to: PITC.EACH.ENQUIRIES@ndis.gov.au

This article was written by members of the ‘Stronger Seeds, Taller Trees’ project which includes professionals from a number of government and non-government organisations in South Western Sydney. The group aims to support GPs working with families to navigate and access timely services when they have a concern about a child’s development.

22 July 2021

The first three years of life are critical for a child’s brain development. Early intervention is linked with positive changes in functional gains for children and can positively impact all aspects of development and functioning including mental health, physical, social and cognitive development.

To achieve the best results from early intervention we need early identification of developmental concerns and referral to appropriate services. It is recommended to refer at the time of identification to ensure access to supports within the first three years of life or as early as possible.

Where and how to refer

Waitlists vary between services. It is important to refer early to account for potential waitlist times. Please consider referring to both private (using Medicare rebate options) and community health services to ensure families are offered supports in the timeliest manner.