FAQ
What happens when we first come?
Your first visit to Bridges for Learning will usually be an informal chat with the Specialist Teacher, Occupational Therapist or Speech Pathologist. Or your first visit could be attending an assessment with one or more of the staff. You will decide this with us on your intial phone call.
Depending on your child’s needs, our staff will develop a program for your child with the resources we have available here and we can also let you know of other community resources available. We will review this individualised plan carefully with you before we start.
All children attend their sessions with their parents and the parent stay at the Centre during the sessions. With the older children, the parents often wait in another room. Particularly with very young children the parents stay with the child and participate in their sessions, learning along with the child. In group sessions, we will introduce you to other mothers, fathers or other carers – it can often be helpful to chat to others in similar circumstances. We most likely will have a therapist or family worker also spend time in the parent groups giving information about what their child is doing or suggestions on what can be practiced at home.
Fees For Services
Bridges for Learning is partially funded by government grants. Fees to cover our costs are kept to a minimum and vary according to each service. Some of our services are free. Concessions are available and dealt with on a case by case basis. For those services that are government funded, we will always accommodate your financial situation and ensure your child is able to receive the services they need.
For those services that are not government funded, we still have a fee assistance program that assists those in financial difficulty. Please ask about this service if you need it.
Our bottom line is that we want your child to receive the assistance they need – we do not want financial difficulties to prevent your child from receiving appropriate service.
What is an Early Childhood Intervention Service?
Early childhood intervention is the process of providing specialised support and services for infants and young children with developmetnla delays or disabilities, and their families in order to promote development, well-being and community particpation.
Intervening early with therapy and learning assistance can be important to children’s lives.
- It can help them with everyday tasks at home.
- It can prepare them for a positive experience of preschool and school.
- It can help them to interact with others and make friends.
The Importance of Early Childhood Intervention Services
About 10% of children in the Southern Highlands have special needs, which take many forms from delayed developmental to learning disabilities. For these children, early intervention with a range of therapies and services, makes all the difference. Access to quality early intervention helps these children look forward to a better, happier future. A positive long-term prognosis and the ability to live independently are directly linked to the early intervention these children and their families receive.
Research shows that early childhood intervention can;
- Significantly improve the development and functioning of children with disabilities and developmental delays.
- Make a substantial difference to the wellbeing of children and their families.
- Reduce both the child’s and the family’s dependence on costly specialised services later in life.
We also know it gives choices and choices strengthen hope.
Early childhood intervention is good for children. Click on the below for more information.
Early Childhood Intervention Information Article
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