Paediatric Developmental Education - Adelaide

When can Developmental Education (DE) help your child or young person?

Every child and young person deserves the chance to grow, learn, and thrive. Sometimes, children need a little extra support to build confidence, independence, or to manage the challenges of daily life.

Developmental Education is an allied health profession that supports children and young people with disability to build meaningful skills, live more independently, and participate in their community. Our Developmental Educators use evidence-based, person-centred approaches to support development, learning, and wellbeing — always focusing on what matters most to your child and family.

Developmental Education can help when your child is experiencing difficulties with:

Everyday Routines or Life Skills

Learning everyday routines is an important step towards independence. Our Developmental Educators support children to develop practical skills such as self-care, organisation, and daily living tasks in ways that are achievable and positive. By breaking activities down into manageable steps, we help children feel capable and confident in their ability to participate in family, school, and community life.

Emotional Regulation or Behaviour

Big feelings can sometimes feel overwhelming for children and their families. We work together to understand the underlying needs behind behaviour and provide strategies that are safe, respectful, and effective. Through tailored approaches, children learn how to recognise their emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience, while families gain practical tools to support their child at home and in the community.

Sensory Needs and Stress Management

Every child experiences the world differently, and for some, sensory input can feel either too much or not enough. Our team provides individualised sensory strategies to help children manage stress, stay calm, and feel comfortable in their environment. By creating supportive routines and sensory-friendly approaches, we help children feel more in control and able to fully engage in learning, play, and social activities.

Social Skills and Building Friendships

Friendships and social connections are an important part of growing up. We support children to develop the communication and social skills they need to connect with peers, join group activities, and build meaningful relationships. By focusing on strengths and providing guided practice, children gain confidence in their ability to express themselves, work with others, and feel a sense of belonging.

Transitions Such as Starting School or Moving to High School

Transitions can be exciting but also challenging for children and families. Whether it’s starting school, moving into high school, or adjusting to a new routine, we provide guidance and practical strategies to make these changes smoother. With preparation and consistent support, children are better able to adapt, reduce anxiety, and step into new environments with confidence.

How is Developmental Education different from Occupational Therapy?

It’s common for families to wonder about the difference between a Developmental Educator (DE) and an Occupational Therapist (OT), as both professionals support children to build skills for independence, learning, and wellbeing.

Occupational Therapists focus on how children take part in the everyday activities of life (like self-care, play, or schoolwork). They often provide support with fine motor skills, sensory processing, coordination, and sometimes recommend tools or strategies to make tasks easier.

Developmental Educators focus on teaching and building life skills, emotional regulation, social development, behaviour support, and transitions such as starting school or moving into high school. They also work closely with families to provide practical strategies that can be used at home, school, and in the community.

While there is some overlap, the difference is in emphasis:

OTs focus on how children do things
DEs focus on learning and practising skills to thrive in everyday life

Both professionals can play an important role in your child’s journey. Many families find that having a Developmental Educator and an Occupational Therapist working together provides the best of both worlds — holistic, neuro-affirming support that helps children grow in confidence, skills, and independence.

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Here's why our focus on neuroaffirming practice is so important:

Celebrating Neurodiversity

We believe that neurodiversity is a natural and valuable aspect of human variation. Our neuroaffirming practice embraces the understanding that neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental conditions, are a part of the diverse fabric of humanity. We celebrate and value the unique strengths and perspectives that neurodivergent individuals bring to our society.

Creating an Inclusive Environment

Our approach creates a safe and accepting environment for all children, regardless of their neurological differences. We strive to foster a sense of belonging, where children feel understood, accepted, and valued for who they are. By providing a neuroaffirming space, we empower children to express themselves authentically and engage in their therapeutic journey with confidence.

Respecting Individual Needs

Neuroaffirming practice emphasises the importance of understanding and respecting individual needs and preferences. We recognise that each child has their own unique way of experiencing the world and engaging with daily activities. Our therapists take the time to listen, observe, and adapt interventions to meet the specific needs and sensory sensitivities of each child.

Supporting Self-Advocacy

We empower children to become self-advocates by nurturing their self-awareness, self-esteem, and self-advocacy skills. Through our neuroaffirming approach, we foster a sense of agency and encourage children to actively participate in their therapy, make choices, and express their opinions. This prepares them to advocate for their needs and rights throughout their lives.

Collaborating with Families and Support Networks

Our neuroaffirming approach extends to our collaboration with families and the child's support network. We actively involve parents, caregivers, and family members in the therapy process, valuing their insights and perspectives. We work together as a team, fostering open communication and mutual respect to create a cohesive and supportive network around the child.

Working Closely with Educators and Schools

At All Things Therapy, we understand the pivotal role that educators and schools play in a child's development and success. We are dedicated to collaborating closely with educators to ensure a coordinated and supportive approach to the child's occupational therapy needs. By working together, we can maximise the child's potential and create a seamless experience across different environments.

Take the first leap towards progress

Completing our intake form is the best way to get started—it helps us understand your child's needs and how we can support them. Submitting the form is obligation-free and does not commit you to therapy. It’s simply a way to start the conversation and explore the best options for your child.

Once we receive your form, our team will reach out to discuss the next steps and answer any questions you may have. Let’s work together to support your child’s growth and development!

INTAKE FORM

Step 1: Parent/guardian planning meeting.

These sessions are typically conducted online or by phone, with clinic visits available if preferred. Children do not attend, allowing parents/carers to openly discuss their child's needs, concerns, and priorities. Your therapist will gather key information, including medical history, family dynamics, current therapies, and the child's abilities in areas like social skills, motor skills, sensory processing, emotional development, self-care, and learning. Together, we identify goals for the Therapy Plan, ensuring everyone is aligned.

Sessions usually last 60–90 minutes.

Step 2: Initial meet and greet with the child.

At All Things Therapy, we prioritise creating a safe, welcoming space where your child feels comfortable engaging in therapy. Our first goal is to build trust and rapport, laying the foundation for a successful therapeutic relationship. This initial session, attended with a parent or trusted caregiver, involves play, conversation, and exploration of the purpose of therapy. During this time, the therapist will observe your child’s strengths, preferences, and challenges to help shape their Therapy Plan.

Session length varies based on the child’s needs, typically lasting 30 to 45 minutes.

Step 3: A therapy plan will be formulated.

After the initial steps (and sometimes a few additional sessions), the therapist will create a Therapy Plan outlining key goals, strategies to achieve them, and important details for structuring sessions.

This comprehensive report typically takes 90 to 120 minutes to complete.

Step 4: Sessions will commence.

Ongoing sessions will be scheduled based on an agreed frequency, with most clients opting for weekly or fortnightly sessions.

Remember, every child is unique

The presence of one or more of these signs does not automatically mean that therapy is needed. However, if you have concerns about your child's development, motor skills, sensory processing, self-care abilities, or overall functional performance, it is recommended to consult with a therapist. They can assess your child's needs and recommend appropriate interventions to support their growth and development.

All Things Therapy