Supporting Social Participation (2-10)
About the service:
At Northside Speech, we recognise that all children, including those with disabilities, learn language and social communication skills through their everyday interactions and experiences.
We also understand that communication support needs can sometimes make it challenging to access and benefit from the range of activities and social opportunities available to others.
Our Supporting Social Participation consultations are designed to:
- Help individuals with communication support needs engage in and enjoy activities and social groups that match their interests
- Provide one-off consultations or short-term supports with strategies to assist children with disabilities in participating in mainstream or group-based activities
- Focus on enhancing language and social communication skills through real-life social experiences
- Offer individualised strategies tailored to your specific concerns and goals
What do I need to do before a consultation?
Before your consultation, please consider the following:
Your Concerns: Why are you seeking a speech pathology consultation?
- For example, what challenges is your child facing in participating in a particular activity or group? What potential difficulties might arise when they join the activity or program?
Your Goals: What do you hope to achieve from the consultation?
- For example, what would you like your child to gain from participating in the group or activity?
Funding or Documentation Requirements: Are you using funding (e.g. Medicare or health insurance) to help pay for the consultation? Or are you applying for funding (e.g. NDIS)?
- If so, please let us know, as there are specific requirements we need to meet.
You Will Need to:
- Provide information about your concerns, goals for the consultation, and any funding or documentation needs before the appointment
- Complete the following forms:
- Provide copies of any relevant reports related to your concerns (e.g. from previous speech pathologists, audiologists, ENT specialists, OTs, psychologists, etc.)
The more details you provide about your concerns and goals, the better we can tailor the consultation to your needs. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers—just share as much information as you can.
What happens during a consultation?
Consultations are tailored to your specific concerns and goals, and there is no standard approach.
During a consultation, you can expect:
- A thorough discussion about your concerns and goals
- Practical ideas and strategies to try in the activity or social group
- Depending on your needs, consultations may also include:
- Listening to your child’s speech during conversation or while discussing a favourite activity
- Observing how your child communicates with you during play or routine activities
- Gathering information from others who support your child, such as family members, teachers, or support workers
How do I access a consultation?
- Eligibility: We accept NDIS participants, as well as individuals who are not NDIS participants.
- Booking: Schedule a consultation online.