If your child has a disability or other additional needs, navigating the world of allied health can feel overwhelming. You want the best for your child—professionals who understand, respect, and support your family’s journey. At clinics like Supporting Learning for Children with Needs (SLCN), the goal is to provide compassionate, person-centered care that empowers children and their families.
This guide will help you prepare for meetings with disability professionals, understand what to expect, and make the most of your time together.
Meeting with disability professionals is a key step in supporting your child’s development. Whether you're attending an initial consultation or a follow-up session, preparation can help you:
Preparation isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about being ready to advocate for your child and collaborate with professionals who are there to help.
To get the most out of your meeting, consider bringing the following:
Include any diagnoses, previous assessments, therapy reports, or medical records. These help professionals understand your child’s background and current needs.
Teachers often provide valuable insights into your child’s learning style, social interactions, and classroom challenges.
You know your child best. Share what you’ve noticed at home—strengths, struggles, behaviours, and changes over time.
Write down any questions you have. These might include:
If your child is an NDIS participant, bring your plan and any relevant goals or funding details.
Professionals at SLCN take a holistic approach. They’ll want to understand not just your child’s development, but also how your family is managing. Expect questions about:
These conversations help build a complete picture and ensure that interventions are tailored to your child’s unique needs.
At SLCN, professionals are committed to person-first practice. This means they see your child as a whole person—not just a diagnosis. You can expect them to be:
They’ll use inclusive language, honour your preferences (e.g., identity-first vs. person-first language), and respect your cultural background.
Professionals will listen carefully to your concerns, ask thoughtful questions, and take time to understand your child’s personality and needs.
You’ll be met with empathy and encouragement. Whether you’re feeling hopeful or overwhelmed, professionals are there to support you.
They’ll approach difficult topics with care and compassion, ensuring you feel safe and heard.
Therapy goals are co-created with input from you, your child, and the professional. This ensures that goals are:
Effective communication is the foundation of a successful partnership between families and professionals. Here’s how to foster that connection:
Share your thoughts, even if they’re difficult. Professionals can only help if they understand your reality.
Don’t hesitate to ask for explanations in plain language. You deserve to understand every aspect of your child’s care.
If something isn’t working, speak up. Your input helps refine therapy plans and ensures your child gets the best support.
Even small steps forward are worth celebrating. Acknowledging growth boosts morale and reinforces positive change.
Here are some frequently asked questions that might help guide your own:
Sometimes, you might not agree with a professional’s approach or recommendations. Here’s what to do:
At SLCN, professionals welcome feedback and aim to build trust through transparency and collaboration.
Therapy is just one part of your child’s journey. Here are ways to support learning and development at home:
Consistency helps children feel secure and supports skill-building.
Play is a powerful tool for learning, especially for children with developmental delays or neurodivergence.
Use visuals, gestures, or assistive technology to support your child’s communication style.
Focus on what your child enjoys and does well. This boosts confidence and motivation.
Join support groups, attend workshops, and engage with other families. Shared experiences can be incredibly validating.
Meeting with disability professionals can be a transformative experience. At SLCN, the focus is on empowering families, celebrating children’s potential, and building meaningful partnerships. With preparation, openness, and collaboration, you can make the most of every appointment and help your child thrive.
Remember: You are your child’s greatest advocate. Your insights, love, and commitment are the foundation of their success.
