Early Intervention Supports

What is Early Intervention?

Under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia, early intervention is a proactive and evidence-based approach designed to support children who have a disability, developmental delay, or are at risk of developing one.

When behavioural challenges are identified early, timely and targeted support can lead to significant improvements in a child’s emotional wellbeing, communication, and relationships, laying a stronger foundation for lifelong learning and participation.

Who Is It For?

Early intervention behaviour support is designed for:

· Children aged 0 to 9 years with developmental delays, disabilities, or emerging behavioural challenges.

· Families and carers who require support in understanding and managing a child’s behaviour positively and effectively.

A formal diagnosis is not always required to access early supports under the Early Childhood Approach (for children aged 0–9, please discuss with your paediatrician or seek guidance via: https://www.ndis.gov.au/applying-access-ndis/how-apply/information-gps-and-health-professionals/eligibility-and-early-intervention-faq

Goals of Behaviour-Focused Early Intervention

· Reduce the impact of behavioural, developmental, or functional difficulties.

· Promote emotion regulation, communication, social skills, and positive behaviour.

· Build the capacity of families and educators to respond to challenging behaviours.

· Prevent escalation or future reliance on more intensive or restrictive supports.

Key Supports:

· Play-based intervention targeting individual goals such as:

o Emotional regulation

o Social interaction

o Functional communication

· Family education and coaching to manage behaviour and support development at home

· School and daycare readiness activities, including routines, transitions, and classroom behaviour

· Inclusion support in early learning and educational settings

· Collaboration with other professionals, including speech therapists, occupational therapists, and psychologists, to ensure holistic support

Where Are Supports Delivered?

Support is flexible and provided in natural environments where children learn and grow:

· In-home support for daily routines, parenting strategies, and family engagement

· Early childhood education and school support, including daycare

· Clinic-based sessions tailored to individual learning styles and goals

· Community-based support (parks, libraries, playgroups) to generalise skills in everyday settings

Why Early Intervention Matters

Early challenges with behaviour can affect a child’s ability to participate, connect, and thrive. By acting early, we not only support the child’s development, but also empower the adults around them—creating a safe, consistent, and supportive environment for growth.

More info:

https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/families-and-carers/early-childhood-approach-children-younger

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKs6rT-Hxl0&ab_channel=NDISAustralia