Finding out that your pre-schooler is struggling with their communication can be tricky information to hear. You may have been told by your child’s educator that your child is having difficulties with their sounds, or getting frustrated that their peers cannot understand them. Navigating the various services available and where to start can be overwhelming and you may feel like you have no idea where to start! 

Here are some top tips from a speech pathologist about how to get the most out of finding a therapist and accessing funding: 

  • Typically, the first step would involve searching for a local speech therapist. You can achieve this by a google search, the ‘Find a Speech Pathologist’ function on the Speech Pathology Australia website or liaising with health professionals within your team such as your GP. 
  • Depending on your location, you may have access to public services, such as Community Health, private practices (such as Hanrahan Health) or local charities around you who offer speech therapy services. Which option you take may be determined by a variety of factors, such as waiting lists, funding sources, resources, and other preferences. 
  • Waitlists around the country can be long - I recommended that you put your child’s name on a waitlist as soon as possible if you have concerns for your child’s communication skills. 
  • If you have concerns that your child has communication difficulties, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is available to provide financial support and assistance. The NDIS recognises the importance of early intervention in supporting children’s long term communication skills and funds therapies for children aged 0-6 years. You can find your local area’s early childhood partner, who can provide assessment for funding eligibility requirements here https://www.ndis.gov.au/contact/locations. There are eligibility requirements, however, you can refer your child without having professional input, and the whole process is free. I recommend engaging your early childhood partner before you have your first assessment sessions if financial issues are a concern. 

Early intervention funding can make engaging with speech therapy more accessible. It can also give the flexibility of more therapy sessions and flexibility of therapy location. Early intervention is a fantastic tool to support your child’s communication and we hope that you now feel more confident in following up after a referral.

If you have concerns about your child’s communication skills, reach out to our friendly team at admin@hanrhanhealth.com.au today for further information.