How do I get support for a child that has an intellectual disability?

As a parent, facing the prospect of raising a child with an intellectual disability (such as ADHD, autism, hearing loss or cerebral palsy) can be an overwhelming experience. Knowing where to go for assistance, who to ask your questions to and learning how to best support your child can be daunting if you don’t know where to start. However, these worries can be eased once you understand what type of challenges your child faces and the support that exists to help.

Where to begin?

The government provides support in various forms for children with intellectual disabilities. Thankfully, over the years there has been increased awareness and funding to support parents and caregivers to ensure their children can flourish in their everyday activities. 

For children under seven years old, the NDIS provides support through the Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) program. You can apply for support through ECEI by first organising a planning meeting with an Early Childhood Partner. You can search for your local partner here

For children over seven years, this search tool can also connect you with your local area coordinator who can serve as your first point of contact with the NDIS. 

Accessing supports

Working with a local area coordinator or plan manager, you will have an NDIA approved NDIS plan that details the goals you and your child would like to achieve and what support you believe are necessary to reach them.

With this plan in place, you can begin reaching out to service providers and start utilising their services. Your child may need access to certain equipment like a power wheelchair or adjustable bed as well as home modifications to improve accessibility and safety. All this can be funded through approved service providers. 

Service providers like Community Access Care, also exist to work with you and your child to help them improve their daily life skills and achieve a certain level of independence appropriate to their situation. At Community Access Care, we have a wealth of experience to help you and your child reach their goals by implementing strategies to achieve positive behavioural outcomes and develop essential life skills.

We also have a range of programs designed to connect clients to the community, providing transport options to and from social outings, support groups and shopping centres. 

Our in-home support options prioritise developing our clients’ capacity for self-reliance and autonomy. Skills like being able to prepare your own meal and keeping your living space clean and tidy are fulfilling exercises and, with the constant support of our dedicated staff, your child will be empowered to take ownership of their life to the fullest extent of their abilities. 

We know that understanding what supports are available for a child living with an intellectual disability and getting access to them can seem like a difficult and emotionally exhausting process. But you’re not alone. By reaching out to your local NDIS Partner in the Community, you can begin the journey to a future with customised professional support. 

If you have any questions about the support we have available, get in touch today! Our team would love to assist you as soon as we can. 

Get in touch with our friendly team, and we will assist you as soon as we can:
Phone: 1300 522 104
Email: [email protected]