Navigating the NDIS for young children

NDIS funding and supports for participants are constantly changing. What might have been funded previously may have changed under the new NDIS legislation. It's important to ensure that you are up to date with the current information and updates.

Information on this page is current as of November 2024.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an initiative in Australia that provides support to people with disabilities, including young children.

For parents of young children, the whole process can seem a bit overwhelming, but understanding the NDIS is important for helping your child reach their potential. 

Understanding the NDIS

The NDIS is here to provide financial support and services to individuals with disabilities, helping them participate more fully in everyday life. It's designed to be flexible and tailored to meet the specific needs of each person. For young children, getting support early on is especially important because it can make a big difference in their long-term development.

Is your child eligible for the NDIS?

To get started with the NDIS, there are a few basic criteria your child needs to meet:

• Age: Children under 9 can receive early childhood supports. As they grow older, they can continue to get help if they still meet the criteria.
• Residency: Your child must be an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa.
• Disability or developmental delay: This includes any diagnosed disability or developmental delay that affects their ability to do everyday activities.

For young children, the NDIS offers early intervention support, which can really set the stage for better outcomes later on.

The early childhood approach

The NDIS uses what's called the early childhood approach to support children under 9, and their families. This approach is all about providing the right support at the right time, especially when children are at risk of developmental delays or already have a disability. Here's what it involves:

• Information and guidance: Helping parents understand their child's development and what might help.
• Connecting with services: Connecting families with the right early intervention services.
• Short-term supports: Providing quick help to build important skills in young children.

This approach is valuable because it gets in early, helping to lessen the impact of any delays and set children up for success.

How to navigate the NDIS for young children

Getting started with the NDIS involves a few key steps:

1. Getting in touch: First, you’ll need to contact the NDIS to discuss your child’s needs and see if they qualify. You can do this by calling the NDIS helpline or visiting an NDIS office.
2. Creating a plan: If your child is eligible, the next step is to create an NDIS plan. This plan outlines the supports and services your child will receive. You'll work with an NDIS planner or an Early Childhood Partner to determine your child's needs and set some goals.
3. Putting the plan into action: Once the plan is approved, you can start accessing the funded supports, like therapy services or specialised equipment.
4. Review and update: Plans are reviewed regularly to make sure they still meet your child’s needs. You can ask for a review if things change or if your child needs different supports.

What kind of support is available?

The NDIS offers a variety of supports for young children, depending on their needs. Here are some examples:

• Therapies: This includes speech therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and more, all aimed at helping your child develop key skills.
• Equipment: If your child needs special equipment, like communication devices or mobility aids, the NDIS can help cover these costs.
• Respite care: This service gives families a break, providing temporary care for your child so you can have some time to yourself.
• Early learning support: The NDIS can fund extra support in early childhood education settings, helping your child engage and learn with their peers.
• Community activities: Supports that help your child join in community activities, which is great for social skills and feeling included.

Working with early childhood partners

Early Childhood Partners are organisations funded by the NDIS to deliver the early childhood approach. They’re a great resource for families, helping you understand the NDIS, connect with local services, and get the most out of your plan. These partners are usually based in local communities, making it easy to get the support you need close to home.

Here’s how they can help:

• Understanding the NDIS: Explaining how it all works and what kinds of supports are available.
• Finding services: Connecting you with local services that can help your child.
• Implementing the plan: Helping you put the NDIS plan into action and access the supports you're entitled to.

Tips for navigating the NDIS

• Start early: The sooner you get in touch with the NDIS, the sooner your child can start benefiting from the support.
• Be prepared: Have all the necessary documents, like medical reports and assessments, ready when you contact the NDIS. It helps make the process smoother.
• Stay informed: The NDIS can be complex, so staying informed is key. Attend workshops, join parent support groups, and use online resources to keep up to date.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions: Whether it’s about the NDIS process or the types of support available, asking questions can help you understand better and advocate for your child.
• Advocate for your child: Be proactive in seeking out the supports your child needs. If something isn’t clear, ask for help or clarification.

Common challenges and how to overcome them

Navigating the NDIS can be tricky, especially if you’re new to it. Here are some common challenges and tips for dealing with them:

• Understanding the system: The NDIS has its own processes and language, which can be confusing. Take your time to learn about it and don’t hesitate to ask for help from Early Childhood Partners or advocacy groups.
• Getting the right support: Sometimes, the services you need might not be easily available in your area. Work with your Early Childhood Partner to find suitable options or discuss funding possibilities.
• Communication: Keeping clear and open communication with your NDIS planner and service providers is crucial. Regular updates on your child's progress and any changing needs are important.
• Managing the plan: Deciding how to manage your child's NDIS plan can be a bit overwhelming. Whether you choose to self-manage, use a plan manager, or have the NDIA manage the funds, make sure you understand each option's pros and cons.

The NDIS provides an opportunity for young children with disabilities or developmental delays to get the support they need to thrive. While it can seem like a lot to navigate, understanding the system and using the available resources can make a big difference. Early intervention and a personalised approach are key elements of the NDIS, designed to help each child develop their abilities and engage fully in their community.

As parents and carers, your involvement is important in ensuring your child gets the support they need. By staying informed, asking the right questions, and working closely with NDIS professionals and Early Childhood Partners, you can help your child make the most of the opportunities available through the NDIS.

Remember, the NDIS is designed to be adaptable, responding to the changing needs of your child. Regularly reviewing and updating your child's plan will help ensure they continue to receive the right support as they grow. With the right approach and resources, navigating the NDIS can be a positive and empowering experience for you and your child.