DISCUSSION PAPER ON FOUNDATIONAL SUPPORTS AND THE DISABILITY ECOSYSTEM FOR CHILDREN WITH DEVELOPMENTAL CONCERNS, DELAYS, DIFFERENCES AND DISABILITIES.
The Early Childhood Intervention Best Practice Network (ECIBPN) has released a new discussion paper, Foundational Supports and the Disability Ecosystem for Children with Developmental Concerns, Delays, Differences and Disabilities: Principles, Best Practices and Solutions. This paper offers critical recommendations for the design of foundational supports, a vital element of the disability ecosystem currently under development.
The ECIBPN, a collective of not-for-profit organisations delivering early intervention services and early childhood education across NSW, VIC, and the ACT, emphasises the importance of designing a system that reflects evidence-based practices, sustainability, and flexibility to address the unique needs of children and families.
“This paper provides a blueprint for creating a support system that not only meets the developmental needs of children but also ensures equity and accessibility for all,” said Morgan A. Fitzpatrick, a Co-chair of the ECIBPN.
The ECIBPN invites policymakers, service providers, and community stakeholders to engage with the insights presented in the paper and collaborate in shaping a disability ecosystem that delivers long-term benefits for children and families.
Koorana Child & Family Services is a member of the ECIBPN and supports the call to ensure evidence-based best practices are utilised widely in early childhood intervention. We believe that this vision supports the current and long-term sustainability of community service systems, will increase positive outcomes for children and families, and is well-aligned to the vision of the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) and state governments.
The ECIBPN supports more than 4,788 children annually in early intervention services under the NDIS, and more than 16,873 children and young people annually in total.
Members of the Early Childhood Intervention Best Practice Network include:
