Preparing children for school can be a particularly daunting experience for the parents of children living with a disability.
The Victoria Park State School Early Childhood Development Program (ECDP) provides early intervention for children from birth to five years who have a suspected or diagnosed disability, supporting skills and behaviour development to successfully transition children into prep and maximise participation in schooling.
Head of Special Education Olivia Burford said early intervention is key for giving children the skills they may be missing in preparation for schooling.
“We see a higher success rate than those who haven’t gone through early intervention,” Mrs Burford said.
ECDP also liaise with daycares, kindergartens and schools throughout the community, ensuring a holistic approach to a child’s early development.
“We prepare the school so that they are ready for the children to transition into the classroom and school environment, regardless of their disability,” Mrs Burford said.
The program is free for eligible children with visual, hearing, physical, speech and language impairments and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Programs are run in groups of a maximum of six and focus on communication, self-care and independence, incorporating singing, story time, gross motor obstacle courses and fine motor activities.
“What each of those activities looks like for each child is very different,” said ECDP Teacher Kylie Elkins.
“Although we have a general program, it’s quite individualised depending on what our children’s needs are.”
ECDP also holds weekly playgroups, providing a space for parents to meet fellow parents and liaise with staff and experts.
“We’ve had many kids over the years transition well and the feedback we’ve received from many schools has always been positive,” said Mrs Burford.
ECDP has centres at Victoria Park State School and West Mackay State School.
They are currently raising funds for the purchase of specialised toys and equipment as well as professional development for their staff.
For more information, contact ECDP at mackayecdp@victoriaparkss.eq.edu.au.
To make a donation, contact the Victoria Park State School P&C Association by emailing pandc@victoriaparkss.eq.edu.au.
ECDP uses a variety of activities to prepare children living with a disability for prep. Photo supplied: Olivia Burford
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