Autism and advocacy for young children

Advocating for children with disability, autism, or other additional needs is essential to ensure their rights to inclusion and fair treatment are supported in early childhood education settings. 

Advocacy can address issues such as unlawful discrimination, delays in receiving inclusion support funding, and any concerns about your child’s wellbeing and development.

Recognising when to advocate

Parents and carers may need to advocate for their child if they believe:

• Their child’s right to inclusion is not being met.

• Their child is experiencing discrimination.

• There are significant delays in obtaining necessary inclusion funding.

Effective advocacy for your child

Start by clearly identifying the specific issue affecting your child. It’s really important to gather all the information from the early childhood education provider to understand any challenges they may be facing in providing the necessary support and inclusion for your child. Once you understand the problem well, you’ll be better equipped to address it effectively.

Next, make sure you have a thorough understanding of your child’s unique needs and the types of support that can help them. This knowledge is important in advocating for your child because it allows you to articulate precisely what they require to thrive in their environment. 

Once you have a clear understanding of your child’s needs, define what it is that you want to achieve. Determine your goals by collecting as much information as possible and considering different perspectives. Make sure that the desired outcome is in your child’s best interests, including evaluating any potential negative consequences. Knowing what you want to achieve will guide your advocacy efforts and help you stay focused.

When discussing your concerns with early childhood educators, aim to propose effective solutions rather than just presenting complaints. Work collaboratively with the staff to find practical ways to support your child. Ask questions that encourage positive changes and adjustments to help your child’s inclusion. 

By focusing on solutions, you can create a cooperative atmosphere that benefits your child and supports their development. 

‍Tips for successful advocacy

• Stay calm and positive: Approaching situations with a calm and friendly attitude helps others to be more open to your concerns. Focus on finding solutions, stick to the facts, and offer suggestions rather than making demands. Techniques like deep breathing or taking short breaks can help you stay composed during meetings.

• Be prepared and organised: Preparation is crucial. Keep thorough records of all your interactions, including meetings, emails, and phone calls. Organising these documents well will support your advocacy efforts and ensure you have all the necessary information at your fingertips.

• Find a support network: Joining support groups or connecting with other parents who have faced similar challenges can provide valuable insights and emotional backing. Professional advocates can also offer expert guidance on your child’s rights and can accompany you to meetings for additional support.

• Understand your child’s rights: Knowing your child’s rights within the education system is essential. For example, the Disability Standards for Education require schools to make reasonable adjustments for children with disabilities. Familiarising yourself with these standards and your child’s entitlements can enhance your advocacy efforts.

• Know when to escalate: If you can’t resolve issues directly with your early childhood provider, don’t hesitate to take further action. You have the right to file a formal complaint with your state or territory’s anti-discrimination agency or the Australian Human Rights Commission.

By following these tips, you can effectively advocate for your child, ensuring they receive the support and opportunities they deserve in their early education setting.