Understanding day programs

Day programs are specialised activities and sessions designed to provide a structured and inclusive space for people with a disability. 

These programs not only allow participants to pursue their interests, interact with other people and develop independent living skills, but they can also improve their overall wellbeing and build their confidence. 

Day program attendees often use their NDIS funding to attend day programs. Good day programs involve various activities and aim to offer personal development opportunities for participants, such as skill development or improving wellbeing. The overarching goal of these programs should be to encourage personal growth, social interaction and skill development in a safe and supportive environment.

Types of day programs

Day programs can vary widely, but some common types include:

• Educational programs: These programs focus on learning and skill development, offering activities in areas such as literacy, numeracy, and computer skills.
• Work-based programs: These programs allow participants to engage in work-like activities (e.g., supported employment), helping them develop job skills, explore potential career paths and, where applicable, prepare for mainstream employment.
• Recreational programs: Activities in these programs may include arts and crafts, sports, and other hobbies that promote physical health and creative expression.‍
• Therapeutic programs: These are designed to provide therapeutic benefits, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counselling.

Benefits of day programs

Many people with autism work towards developing new skills at home, in therapy or in the workplace. A day program provides another opportunity to practise these skills while addressing the following areas:

Daily living skills

These programs encourage individuals to develop and improve skills used in everyday life, such as tying their shoes or preparing a meal. Participants can also improve skills related to employment, money management, personal hygiene, and travelling (e.g., using public transport). Mastering these skills can lead to greater self-sufficiency, confidence, and independence.

Critical thinking and decision-making

Participants are encouraged to use critical thinking and practise safe decision-making by engaging in structured activities. A good day program will encourage participants to do this as independently as possible while being ready to offer assistance where needed.

Social skills and relationships

Day programs encourage relationships outside the family unit and strengthen existing relationships with family and friends, reducing social isolation and building social skills. This enhanced social interaction is crucial for overall wellbeing and happiness.

Mental health, self-esteem and confidence

Participation in day programs has been shown to release endorphins, which can reduce loneliness and prevent anxiety and depression. This natural boost to mental health is invaluable for overall wellbeing. Engaging in meaningful activities within day programs increases self-esteem, life satisfaction, and confidence.

Participation in day programs can give individuals a sense of purpose. They can help them feel connected to something larger than themselves, helping them to feel valued and like they belong.

Looking for day programs

Before choosing a day program, consider you or your loved one’s support needs and what you hope to gain from joining a program. Every single day program will be different and be better suited to certain people and support needs. Identifying what you or your loved one would like to work on and requires support with simplifies the search. 

When considering support needs, taking a holistic approach is important. Reflect on you or your loved one’s physical, emotional and support needs and any goals you are working towards. A suitable day program will be able to meet the needs of all participants while also encouraging growth and development. 

Once you have narrowed down your search by identifying support needs, here are some additional things to consider with individual providers:

Communication with families

A good day program will be able and willing to establish a positive relationship with a participant’s family, support workers and others who are responsible for their welfare. Consider how the day program communicates with you - do they answer your questions promptly and respectfully? Do they provide regular updates?

As you work to choose a day program, it is normal to have lots of questions or worries. A good day program should address each and every query or concern you have with respect. If issues or misunderstandings do arise, staff should be prompt in reaching out to address the situation immediately, helping everyone remain on the same page. 

Safety and compliance

Safety and security should always be prioritised in day group programs. This involves security measures such as correct staffing ratios and procedures to address safety risks or emergencies. Background and competency checks should also be completed on all staff to make sure they are the appropriate person to be supporting participants, including training on supporting people with significant support needs or navigating behaviours of concern. 

Ask about the program’s policies and procedures for reporting safety incidents or issues of non-compliance, including how conflicts are resolved and how families are notified. Check that the facility has safety protocols for daily activities and emergency situations and that staff are trained to support participants in an emergency. 

The caregiver-to-attendee ratio can differ between day programs. Communicate with a program or do your own research to determine whether there are enough staff to support participants throughout the day, particularly those with significant support needs.

Daily activities

A successful day program will have a variety of activities on offer for participants, structured to reflect their strengths, interests and support needs. These activities should not only be fun, but should encourage participants to develop new skills, interact with their peers and explore things that interest them. Here are some points to consider when looking into a day program’s activities:

• Does the program offer a mix of suitable activities (e.g., vocational training, educational programs, developing life skills, recreational pursuits)? A well-rounded schedule can include cooking classes, arts and crafts, sports, and leisure activities.
• Does the environment offer a structured and supportive environment where activities are scheduled consistently to provide routine and predictability?
• If a participant is looking for work, can the day program help them develop job-related skills?

Good programs should involve day trips and outings, which provide participants with new experiences and allow them to engage with the wider community. Look for programs that organise regular trips and outings into the community, offering a variety of enjoyable and educational experiences that suit needs and interests. 

Accommodating significant support needs

It is vital that a day program supporting an autistic person with complex support needs can provide the necessary resources, accommodations and experience to keep that participant safe and well. Consider whether a day program environment is easy to navigate for someone with significant support needs and that there are security measures and policies in place to address behaviours of concern, such as absconding or self-injurious behaviour. 

Ask the service provider how daily activities will accommodate an individual with significant support needs to be included in the day’s routine and given meaningful tasks to participate in. Inquire about sensory-friendly activities and environments that cater to the needs of participants with sensory sensitivities (e.g., quiet spaces, objects for sensory stimulation and regulation such as fidget toys or noise-cancelling headphones). 

Special interests can be a fantastic way to encourage people with significant support needs to engage in activities and spend time with others. Ask the service provider if they are willing to adapt programs, procedures, and daily routines to accommodate participants' special interests. 

Other tips for making your decision

There are a few other considerations families should keep in mind when deciding on a day program: 

• Transportation: Determine how participants are transported to and from the day program, or to and from day trips and outings. Day programs should have specialist transport where the driver/s are qualified and experienced in supporting passengers with a disability. Staff-to-participant ratios should also be maintained on transport as they would be in the centre. The NDIS might be able to fund transport to and from a day program - consult your individual plan or your LAC for more information. 
• Meals and supplies: Ask if the day program provides meals, snacks, and supplies or if they need to be provided by participants and their families. Determine whether the centre has policies around accommodating dietary requirements and allergies. 
• Attendee grouping: Group activities should encourage social interaction, helping participants build friendships and connect with peers. This is essential for preventing social isolation and encouraging positive relationships. As many day programs have a diverse range of participants, attendees should be grouped with participants they are safe and comfortable with. Ask the day program how attendees are grouped and how conflicts between participants are resolved. 

One of the best ways to evaluate a day group program is to gather feedback from current and past participants. Their experiences can provide valuable insights into the program's effectiveness and suitability. If you can’t speak to anyone directly, online research can help you find reviews and feedback about the program. This can provide additional perspectives and help identify any potential issues. Ask the program for testimonials or contact information for current or past participants. Most reputable programs will be willing to share this information.

Visiting the programs can ensure a good fit for the participant. Schedule visits to the top programs on your list and prioritise observing the environment, meeting the staff, and seeing the activities in action can provide a clearer picture of what to expect. 

Some programs may offer trial periods or introductory sessions. These opportunities help determine if the program is the right fit for the participant before deciding.