Early Childhood Developmental Care
For children with disability, autism or other additional needs
Reimagine Early Childhood Action Plan
A NATIONAL ACTION PLAN TO 2030 SUPPORTING OUTCOMES FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITY OR DEVELOPMENTAL DELAY AND THEIR FAMILIES
Following the 'Reimagine Early Childhood National Action Plan to 2030' (Action Plan), I will be using the term 'Early Childhood Developmental Care' in place of 'Early Childhood Intervention' (ECI).
Please refer to the glossary page for a brief explanation from the Action Plan. For a copy of the Action Plan, click here
What is early childhood developmental care?
Early childhood developmental care means doing things as early as possible in order to achieve the best result. Early childhood developmental care (previously known as ECI) is the term used to describe the service and supports that children and their families receive during the early years, when the child is developing most rapidly. It offers specialised support for children with disability, such as autism and children with other additional needs..
Early childhood developmental care should happen as soon as possible after your child’s needs are identified. It might include therapies, supports, education and other forms of help.
You’ll also hear the terms 'early childhood intervention' and 'early childhood early intervention'. These refer to therapies and supports for children and their families in the early years from birth until they start school.
How does early childhood developmental care work?
As your child’s specific needs are identified or their condition is diagnosed, early childhood developmental care can focus on your child’s and family’s specific needs.
Early childhood developmental care often focuses on 4 key areas of children’s development:
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Physical development – this is children’s bodies and brains.
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Cognitive development – this is children’s thinking and learning.
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Behavioural development – this is children’s behaviour and how it’s affected by physical and cognitive development.
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Social and emotional development – this is children’s ability to form relationships and manage emotions.
Why is early childhood developmental care important?
Experience shows us that when a child is able to access intervention as early as possible, the positive effects for their learning and development are significantly increased. These include helping children to participate in school, form friendships and engage in recreation opportunities. The sooner you seek support, the better the outcomes for your child and your family.
Research also shows that not only do children learn best from the adults who have the deepest relationships and spend the most time with them, but they also learn best in in everyday situations. A good early childhood practitioner will partner with families to build on the learning opportunities already being provided in your child’s everyday life such as home, the early childhood and school settings, the park, shops or wherever you and your family spend time together.
