If you're concerned about your child's development, you can speak with your GP, child health nurse or an early childhood partner. You don't need to work out a diagnosis or funding pathway on your own before asking for help.
The next step depends on your child's age and needs. Early connections and an NDIS plan aren't the same thing.
Who the approach supports
The early childhood approach supports children younger than six with developmental delay and children younger than nine with disability. Younger children with developmental concerns may also receive early connections without becoming NDIS participants.
The NDIS guide to getting help for your child explains the current pathway. Ask your partner which part applies to your family rather than assuming every child under nine needs a plan.
What to talk about
Describe the activities your child enjoys, what is difficult and what your family would like help with. Examples from home, childcare or school are useful. You can bring notes or ask someone you trust to join the conversation.
The aim is to understand your child's daily life. It isn't a test of how well you know the terminology.
What an early childhood partner does
Your partner discusses suitable community and early supports and whether applying to the NDIS is appropriate. If an application is needed, they explain the process and evidence.
Use the South Australian partner information to find the contact for your area. Check details directly because service boundaries and arrangements can change.
Choosing supports for your child
Ask providers how their work fits your child's needs, preferences and everyday routines. Discuss how they involve your child, how goals are agreed and how progress is reviewed. A busy schedule of appointments isn't automatically a better plan.
Before booking, check the full cost, funding conditions and any cancellation terms. Our funding guide helps with those questions.
Where coordination fits
An early childhood partner and a support coordinator have different roles. Coordination isn't automatically included in every child's plan. If it is funded, we discuss whether NIR is a suitable fit before agreeing to work together.
Read our guide for families, or ask us to contact you about coordination.
