NDIS & EARLY CHILDHOOD
NDIS Early Childhood Approach (formerly Early Childhood Early Intervention)
Early Childhood Intervention and NDIS Early Childhood Approach explained- What is Early Childhood Intervention?
- What other types of early connections are available?
- What is the NDIS Early Childhood Approach?
- What are the aims of the NDIS Early Childhood Approach?
- How does the NDIS Early Childhood Approach work?
- How do I apply for NDIS Early Childhood funding?
- What are my funding management options?
- What is NDIS Plan Management?
- Why join Enabled4Life?
- What benefits can I enjoy with Enabled4Life?
- How do I join Enabled4Life?
Enable your child with the best possible start in life
What is Early Childhood Intervention?
In essence, early intervention means taking action at the earliest possible stage to attain optimal outcomes for children. Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) encompasses services and assistance for children and their families during the crucial early developmental years when progress is most rapid.
Specialists in early intervention collaborate with families, equipping them with strategies and enhancing their capability to support children in their day-to-day activities and routines, whether at home, at daycare, in school, or within the community.
What other types of early connections are available?
In the context of early childhood and support services, several types of early connections and programs are available to families and children. These programs are designed to promote early development, provide support, and build connections within the community. Some of these early connections include:
Early Childhood Education: This includes preschool programs and kindergartens that offer structured learning opportunities for young children to develop social and academic skills. Early childhood education can be a valuable early connection for children.
Parent Support Groups: These groups provide parents with the opportunity to connect with others who are facing similar challenges and joys in parenting. They offer a supportive environment for sharing experiences and seeking advice.
Playgroups: Playgroups are informal gatherings of parents and young children, often in a community setting. They promote socialisation, play, and early learning in a relaxed atmosphere.
Maternal and Child Health Services: These services offer regular check-ups and support for parents and infants to ensure that children are reaching their developmental milestones and are in good health.
Childcare Centres: Childcare centres offer a structured environment for children to play, learn, and interact with peers under the care of qualified professionals.
Community Events and Programs: Many communities host events and programs specifically for families with young children. These can include storytime at the library, art classes, and other community-based activities.
Health Services: Access to healthcare professionals, including paediatricians, can be an essential early connection for monitoring a child’s health and well-being.
Online Resources: The internet offers a wealth of resources for parents and caregivers, from parenting forums to early learning websites and apps.
These early connections are vital for supporting children’s development and ensuring they have a strong foundation for a healthy and successful future. Depending on a family’s needs and location, different types of early connections may be more relevant and accessible.
Other Services & Resources
Early childhood partners will help families participate in mainstream & community services that cater to the needs of the individual including childcare, playgroups, schools, GPs, parenting support groups & child mental health
Practical Information
Depending on a child’s needs, an early childhood partner can give you practical information relevant to your situation including daily routine strategies and advice on child developmental topics such as play, communication and behaviour
Connections With Other Networks
Early childhood partners can connect you to local support networks & services to meet people with similar experiences. Parent & community based services can build knowledge via shared experiences and celebrate your child’s uniqueness
What is the NDIS Early Childhood Approach?
The NDIS Early Childhood Approach currently provides support to children under the age of 7. Commencing from July 1 2023, there will be a progressive expansion of the approach to encompass children under the age of 9. This transition is scheduled to unfold over the course of the next two years. This change aligns with the World Health Organisations definition of young children being 0 to 8 years of age.
The primary objective of this change is to ensure that children under the age of 9 receive the necessary support from an early childhood partner as they navigate the transition to primary school and continue to receive assistance afterwards,
The NDIS early childhood approach is how children younger than 9 and their families are supported. This encompasses children under the age of 6 who exhibit developmental delays and children under the age of 9 with disabilities.
Children under the age of 6 are eligible for support through this approach without the requirement of a formal diagnosis, particularly in cases where developmental concerns are evident.
For example, you might be concerned about how your child:
- Engages in recreational activities and physical play
- Demonstrates self-sufficiency and independence
- Socialises with other children
- Effectively communicates their needs
This approach is aligned with best practice guidelines in early childhood intervention, as established by Reimagine Australia. The best practice approach comprises a set of fundamental principles that govern the interactions between early childhood practitioners and families of children with developmental delays or disabilities. The primary objective is to deliver a family-centric and inclusive approach to care.
What are the aims of the NDIS Early Childhood approach?
Timely Support
This will ensure children and their parents can promptly access the services they require
Information
Provide information about best practice early childhood intervention supports to empower parents to assist their children effectively
Build Confidence & Capacity
Enhance your capacity and confidence to effectively manage and repsond to your child’s needs
Increase Children's Ability
The NDIS Early Childhood approach aims to increase children’s ability to participate in daily activities they need or want
Increase Children's Participation
Increase children’s inclusion and participation in mainstream and community settings like childcare, playgroups, school and recreational activities
Inform Parents of Other Services
Provide parents with information on, and recommendations for, supplementary services as needed, which may include resources like parent support groups
How does the NDIS Early Childhood Approach work?
Throughout Australia (*excluding remote and very remote areas), NDIS Early Childhood Partners are available to assist families in accessing the support their children require via the early childhood approach. These Early Childhood Partners are local organisations that receive funding from the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) to administer the early childhood approach.
These childhood partners have teams of professionals with experience and clinical expertise in working with young children with developmental delay or disability and their families. These family-centered supports are delivered using a best-practice model.
*If you live in an area that doesn’t have an early childhood partner, and you have concerns about your child’s development or disability you should first speak with your doctor, child health nurse, early childhood educator or other health professional. Alternatively call the NDIA National Contact Centre on 1800 800 110, email enquiries@ndis.gov.au or use webchat.
Helping children establish friendships, acquire independence and learn new routines
How do I apply for NDIS Early Childhood funding?
Determine Eligibility
- Must be 0 to 8 years old.
- Must reside in Australia and be an Australian citizen or hold a Permanent OR Protected Special Category Visa
- Must have a developmental delay or disability that significantly impacts their daily life.
Contact the NDIS
- Contact your Early Childhood Partner to express your interest in applying for Early Childhood Funding. If you live in a remote or very remote area, someone from the NDIA will work directly with you, to connect you to supports.
- Phone the NDIS on 1800 800 110
Complete an Access Request Form
- You will be required to fill out the Access Request Form. This form collects information about your child’s condition, your family, and your circumstances.
Gather Supporting Documents
- Collect relevant medical reports, assessments, and any other documents that provide evidence of your child’s developmental delay or disability.
Access Assessment
- The NDIA will review your Access Request Form and supporting documents to assess your child’s eligibility for Early Childhood Funding.
Planning Meeting
- If your child is found eligible, you will have a planning meeting with an NDIS representative to create a personalised plan. During this meeting, you’ll discuss your child’s goals and the supports they need.
- Additionally, you will be asked to elect one of the following funding options, self-management, agency management or plan management.
Plan Approval
- After the planning meeting, your child’s NDIS plan will be created and approved. This plan outlines the funding and services they are eligible to receive.
Plan Implementation
- Once the plan is approved, you can start using the allocated funding to access services and supports taking into account your chosen method of funding management
Revisions and Adjustments
- Periodically, you will have plan reviews to assess your child’s progress and adjust their plan as needed.
Important Information
- It’s important to remember that the NDIS process can vary depending on your location, and there may be different considerations for specific circumstances. It’s advisable to contact the NDIA directly or visit their website for the most up-to-date information and guidance on applying for Early Childhood funding under the NDIS.
What are my funding management options?
Plan Management
Access to the myparticipant portal
Real time budget monitoring
Billing issues resolved and questions answered
No bookkeeping
No separate bank account
Access to an experienced and professional support team
Control provider payments
Budget forecasts and calculators
Monthly activity statements
Document storage and record keeping
Funded by the NDIS
Self Management
Access to the myparticipant portal
Registered and non-registered providers
Pay less than NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits
Pay more than NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits
Agency Management
Access to the myparticipant portal
NDIA will keep records of your spending
No audits
No separate bank account
How Participants are choosing to be managed
%
Plan Managed
%
Self Managed
%
Agency Managed
What is NDIS Plan Management?
Plan Management is a service fully funded through the National Disability Insurance Scheme to NDIS participants to help them effectively manage their NDIS funds and ensure that they receive the supports and services outlined in their NDIS plans.
A plan manager can:
- Increase your financial and plan management skills
- Submit claims to the NDIA
- Pay providers
- Help you comply with NDIS rules and regulations
- Offer greater choice by enabling access to registered and non-registered providers
- Send monthly activity statements
- Offer budget management tools
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Financial Management: NDIS Plan Management involves managing the financial aspects of an NDIS plan. This includes budgeting, paying invoices, and keeping track of expenditures to ensure that participants’ funds are used in accordance with their approved plan.
Choice and Control: It’s designed to give NDIS participants more choice and control over their supports. With plan management, participants can select their preferred service providers, including those who may not be registered with the NDIS.
Invoice Processing: Plan managers process invoices from service providers on behalf of the participant. They check that the invoices are accurate and comply with NDIS guidelines before paying them.
Record Keeping: Plan management services maintain detailed records of expenses and payments, which are essential for transparency, accountability, and reporting to the NDIS.
Support and Guidance: Plan managers offer support and guidance to participants to help them understand their NDIS plan, make informed decisions about their services, and maximise the benefits of their funding.
Reduced Administrative Burden: Plan management can relieve participants and their families of the administrative burdens associated with managing NDIS funds, allowing them to focus on their care and well-being.
Funded by NDIS: Costs are covered by the NDIS under the CB Improved Life Choices’ category and will not impact your other NDIS funded supports.
It’s important to note that NDIS Plan Management is one of several options available to NDIS participants for managing their funds. Participants can also choose to self-manage their funds or have the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) manage their plan. The choice of plan management depends on the individual needs and preferences of the participant.
Plan management offers flexibility and support, empowering NDIS participants to have more control over their services and funding while ensuring that they comply with NDIS guidelines and regulations.
Established in 2017, Enabled4Life proudly stands as one of Australia’s most independent, experienced, and trusted NDIS Plan Managers.
Enabled4Life is deeply committed to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), the participants it helps, and their invaluable support networks. Our dedicated team comprises caring and friendly professionals who are ready to stand by your side throughout your NDIS journey. We offer a personalised and responsive service to ensure your experience with plan management is hassle-free.
Our primary goal is to ease your journey by giving you control over your NDIS plan funds. We achieve this by providing access to industry leading budget management tools, which are designed to simplify your life. With us, you can trust that your payments will be handled with care, granting you the freedom to focus on your goals and ultimately leading to better outcomes. Your journey with Enabled4Life is marked by our commitment to your well-being and success within the NDIS framework.
Make things possible
What benefits can I enjoy with Enabled4Life?
Fast & Accurate Payments
Enabled4Life places an emphasis on accurate NDIS claiming. We commit to the prompt processing of NDIS-compliant invoices and distribution to your service providers within just two business days from the approval of a claim by the NDIS. This commitment is designed to guarantee that your service providers receive timely payments, thus ensuring uninterrupted support and services.
24/7 Budget App
Enabled4Life provide our participants with access to the Careview Budget app, which offers a range of valuable features. Through this app, participants can conveniently track their provider claims, review their funding status, and promptly approve or decline invoices in real-time. This empowers participants with greater control and visibility over their NDIS plan management.
Monthly Activity Statements
At the beginning of each month, Enabled4Life issue activity statements that provide a comprehensive overview of your transactions and category budget utilisation over the course of a monthly period. These statements offer detailed insights into your financial activities and expenditure, enhancing your understanding and control of your NDIS plan.
Friendly & Professional Support Team
Enabled4Life is passionate about the NDIS, participants, and their support networks. We have a dedicated, caring and friendly team of professionals ready to support you on your NDIS journey by providing a personalised and responsive service.
Budget Tracking & Forecasting
24/7 Budget App: Our participants have the convenience of a 24/7 budget app at their disposal, allowing for real-time monitoring of their funding. This empowers them to stay informed about their plan expenditure and available funds, ensuring they can make informed decisions.
Budget Forecasts:We provide budget forecast documents that are readily available upon request. These documents offer participants valuable insights into their funding projections, enabling them to plan and allocate resources effectively.
Free Budget Calculator:To further assist in managing plan budgets, we offer a free budget calculator. This tool is designed to help participants optimise their plan budget spending and make the most of their NDIS funding.
Document Storage
Enabled4Life’s document storage offers significant advantages in terms of organisation, efficiency, compliance, transparency, data security, audit readiness, and potential cost savings. These benefits contribute to the smooth and effective management of NDIS plans.
Greater Choice & Control
Enabled4Life empowers participants with greater choice and control over their supports, funding, and services. This flexibility and autonomy allow them to design a plan that aligns with their individual disability needs and aspirations, enhancing their overall NDIS experience.
Knowledge
Enabled4Life’s knowledgeable support team plays a vital role in simplifying the NDIS journey for participants. Our expertise, guidance, and support contribute to a smoother, more efficient, and more effective NDIS experience, ultimately helping participants achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.
How do I join Enabled4Life?
If you have received your NDIS plan and selected plan management as your preferred funding management option, joining Enabled4Life is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to enjoy the benefits today:
- Visit our sign-up page.
- Complete the service agreement.
- Receive your welcome pack.
- Our National Intake Team will finalise your setup.
- Budget app credentials will be forwarded
- Service providers can begin submitting invoices.
- Claims will be lodged with and approved by NDIS
- Enabled4Life will distribute payments in 2 business days
With Enabled4Life, you can start working toward your plan goals with confidence, knowing that your provider payments will be efficiently managed and taken care of in a timely manner.