What if my child has additional needs?

Every child is unique and has their own learning journey. Along the way, we all need a helping hand. The late Sir Ken Robinson often talked about how learning and teaching was like nurturing plants, “The gardener does not make a plant grow. The job of a gardener is to create optimal conditions.” (after all, kindergarten is German for children's garden!)

We all care for our children deeply and sometimes, when things aren't going quite according to plan, we want to provide them with the right support at the right time. This is where we all come together to ensure this happens. You know your child. Your child's kinder teacher knows your child in a different way and together you can create a rich picture of who your child is. Each of you see different things and can contribute to the conversation about what your child needs to help them be a successful learner.

Most of the time, we can provide the support by working together. Sometimes, however, we all need to ask for extra help to ensure our children have the best transition into school and can continue to grow and thrive. It is important to listen to your child's kinder teacher when they speak to you early in the year that your child starts 4 year old kinder as it can take time to get referrals to key specialists like occupational therapist, speech therapists, etc.

it is incredibly important that your child receives the support they need when they need it. This builds a detailed picture of who your child is and supports their transition into school by ensuring all the pieces are in place. It is important to be open and honest with all professionals so that your child is supported in the best way. Occasionally, it can be confronting to hear some information, but know that you have a team of people around you who are ready and willing to support you and your family.

Please let your child's school know well in advance if your child has any additional needs, preferably when you enrol. It is good to organise an appointment with the principal as they want to know as much about your child as possible.

If it is decided that your child may need extra adult support in class, the Welfare Team at your chosen school will be able to use all the information you, your child's kinder teacher and any specialists provide, to apply for additional funding to support your child. This funding will allow the school to tailor the support to meet your child's needs.

The first year of school is called Prep/Foundation because it is the beginning of the life long journey of learning. We are all committed to ensuring every child has the best start at school. If you would like to know who can help please go to the 'Who do I ask for advice?