Every child develops in their own unique way. If you’ve noticed your little one isn’t quite reaching the milestones you expected, or they’re communicating or engaging differently from what you anticipated, you may be wonderingwhat early childhood intervention is and whether it could support their development.
Early childhood intervention provides comprehensive and individualised support for young children with developmental delays or disabilities, helping them build crucial skills during the most formative years of their brain development. This blog explores early intervention and how it gives children the opportunity to reach their full potential and thrive.
Key Takeaways
- Early childhood intervention supports children from birth to school age who have developmental delays or disabilities.
- The first five years are critical – a child’s brain forms over 1 million neural connections every second during this period.
- Intervention works best when started early, is family-centred, and uses evidence-based approaches like ESDM therapy.
- Children can access support through the NDIS early childhood program – no diagnosis needed for children under 6.
- Benefits include improved communication, social skills, school readiness, and long-term developmental outcomes.
What is Early Childhood Intervention?
When we talk about what early childhood intervention is, we’re referring to a range of services and supports designed specifically for babies and young children (typically from birth to 6 years old, or up to 9 years old) who show signs of developmental delay or have a diagnosed disability.
Unlike general childcare or education, early childhood intervention services are tailored to each child’s unique needs. They might include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, psychology, behaviour support or specialised developmental support, all designed to help your child develop skills in areas like:
- Communication and language
- Social skills with adults and peers
- Play Skills (Imaginational Play and Conventional Play)
- Imitation and Joint Attention
- Cognition and problem-solving skills
- Fine and Gross Motor Skills
- Social Emotional Learning
- Emotional Regulation
- Personal Independence Skills for school readiness
The key difference? Early intervention recognises that families are a child’s greatest resource. Parents and carers aren’t just observers but active participants in their child’s development intervention, learning strategies to support your child’s development throughout everyday routines.
Why Early Brain Development Matters
Here are some remarkable research findings that indicate that in the first five years of life, your child’s brain is developing at an incredible pace. Research shows that over 1 million new neural connections are formed every second during early childhood.
These connections (also known as synapses) form the foundation for everything your child will learn and do. By age 3, a child’s brain has reached about 80% of its adult size, with neural pathways that will support learning, behaviour, and health throughout their entire life.
But here’s the thing: these early connections are shaped by experiences and interactions. When development isn’t progressing as expected, early intervention can help create positive experiences that strengthen the right pathways at a time when the brain is most adaptable.
The Importance of Early Childhood Intervention
The importance of early childhood intervention can’t be overstated. Children who receive structured support often experience:
- Improved Developmental Trajectories: Research shows that early intervention can support positive developmental trajectories. Around one in three infants and toddlers who received early intervention services did not later meet criteria for a disability or require special education services.
- Reduced frustration and challenging behaviours: When children can’t express themselves or navigate their world easily, frustration often leads to difficult behaviours. Early intervention teaches children positive ways to communicate and interact, reducing stress for the whole family.
- Increased confidence for families: Understanding your child’s needs and learning practical strategies to support them brings peace of mind.
Benefits of Early Childhood Intervention
The benefits of early childhood intervention extend far beyond childhood itself. Children who receive appropriate support early on demonstrate:
- Enhanced communication skills: Whether your child is non-verbal, has speech delays, or struggles with social communication, individualised intervention can significantly improve their ability to connect with others.
- Improved social and emotional development: Learning to understand emotions, build relationships, and navigate social situations sets children up for success in kindergarten, school, and throughout life.
- Greater school readiness: Children who’ve received early support often transition more smoothly into mainstream education settings as they possess the foundational skills needed to learn alongside their peers.
- Better long-term outcomes: Studies on approaches like ESDM show lasting gains. A study found that children receiving early intervention showed a 17.6-point average increase in IQ, compared to 7 points in the comparison group.
Evidence-Based Approaches: ESDM Therapy
At Solongo Early Intervention, we use evidence-based practice that research has proven effective. One of the most well-researched approaches for young children with autism or developmental concerns is the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM).
ESDM therapy is a play-based, naturalistic approach that blends developmental science with proven teaching techniques. Rather than rigid, structured sessions, ESDM happens through play and everyday activities – the way young children naturally learn.
Research on ESDM shows improvements in:
- Language and cognitive development
- Social skills
- Adaptive behaviour
- Play skills
- Imitation and joint attention
- Fine and Gross Motor Skills
- Self-care skills
- Parent capacity and confidence
Parent capacity and confidence One of the strengths of ESDM is its focus on parent coaching. We work with your whole family, so you can support your child’s learning throughout their day. This family-centred approach aligns perfectly with best-practice early intervention principles and the NDIS early childhood approach.
Curious about what the benefits of ESDM therapy might be for your child specifically? We’re here to help you understand your options.
Early Childhood Intervention Through the NDIS
In Australia, eligible families can access early intervention support through the NDIS. Their early childhood approach framework recognises that young children develop rapidly and need timely, flexible support.
- No diagnosis required for children under 6: If your child has developmental concerns, they can access support without a formal diagnosis. This removes barriers and gets children help sooner.
- Early Childhood Partners: These are local organisations funded by the NDIS to connect families with the right supports. They’ll help you understand your options and access services – often including short-term early intervention, even if your child doesn’t become an NDIS participant.
- Family-centred and strengths-based: Support focused on building your family’s capacity and confidence, not just helping with your child’s challenges.
If you’re considering an autism spectrum assessment or need guidance on accessing NDIS support or connecting with an early childhood partner, contact us.
How Solongo Early Intervention Can Help
At Solongo Early Intervention, we understand that seeking help for your child can feel overwhelming. You might be worried, confused about the next steps, or simply exhausted from trying to work out what your child needs.
We’re here to support you through this journey. Our team provides:
- Comprehensive developmental assessments to understand your child’s unique strengths and needs.
- Evidence-based therapy approaches.
- Family-centred parent coaching to support your child’s learning every day.
- NDIS support and guidance for eligible families.
- Collaborative approach with your child’s educators and other professionals.
Ready to take the next step? Whether you’re seeking an autism assessment, NDIS support, or just have questions about your child’s development, our team is here to help.
Reach out to Solongo Early Intervention to discuss how we can support your family and give your child the best possible start in life.
