Goal-directed training

Every child has dreams—whether it’s learning to ride a bike, joining in play with friends, or mastering a new skill at school. For children with developmental challenges, these goals can feel out of reach. But with the right support, they can achieve incredible things. That’s the heart of the Goal-Directed Training Program at Supporting Learning for Children with Needs (SLCN)—a structured, empowering approach that helps children build the skills they need to reach their personal goals.

What Is Goal-Directed Training?

Goal-directed training is a therapeutic approach that focuses on helping children achieve specific, meaningful goals through targeted practice, problem-solving, and support. It’s grounded in the belief that children learn best when they’re working toward something that matters to them.

Rather than following a one-size-fits-all curriculum, goal-directed training is individualized. Therapists work closely with children and their families to identify goals that are:

• Functional: Relevant to daily life.
• Motivating: Chosen by the child or family.
• Achievable: Broken down into manageable steps.

At SLCN, this approach is used to support children with a wide range of developmental needs, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, intellectual disabilities, motor coordination difficulties, and learning disorders.

Why Goal-Directed Training Works

Children with developmental challenges often face barriers to learning—whether it’s difficulty with attention, motor skills, communication, or emotional regulation. Goal-directed training helps overcome these barriers by:

• Focusing on strengths: Building on what the child can do.
• Creating structure: Using routines and visual supports.
• Encouraging independence: Teaching problem-solving and self-monitoring.
• Celebrating progress: Reinforcing effort and achievement.

This approach is backed by research in occupational therapy, psychology, and education, and has been shown to improve outcomes in motor skills, daily living, and social participation.

Who Is the Program For?

The Goal-Directed Training Program at SLCN is suitable for children who:

• Have developmental delays or disabilities.
• Struggle with daily tasks like dressing, eating, or organizing schoolwork.
• Need support with motor coordination, such as handwriting or physical play.
• Experience challenges with executive functioning, including planning and attention.
• Are preparing for transitions, such as starting school or moving toward independence.

Whether your child is learning to tie their shoes or preparing for high school, the program can be tailored to meet their unique needs.

How the Program Works

SLCN’s therapists use a structured process to guide children through goal-directed training:

1. Collaborative Goal Setting

Therapists meet with families to identify goals that are meaningful and motivating. These might include:

• Learning to ride a scooter.
• Participating in group play.
• Completing homework independently.
• Preparing a simple meal.

Goals are chosen with input from the child whenever possible, increasing engagement and ownership.

2. Task Analysis and Planning

Each goal is broken down into smaller steps. Therapists analyze the task to identify what skills are needed and where the child may need support. For example, learning to make a sandwich might involve:

• Gathering ingredients.
• Using utensils safely.
• Sequencing steps.
• Cleaning up afterward.

3. Structured Practice

Children practice the task in a supportive environment, using strategies like:

• Visual schedules and checklists.
• Prompting and fading to build independence.
• Repetition and variation to reinforce learning.

Therapists use techniques from motor learning and cognitive-behavioral therapy to help children build skills and confidence.

4. Feedback and Adjustment

Progress is monitored regularly, and goals are adjusted as needed. Children are encouraged to reflect on their performance using simple frameworks like:

• “What went well?”
• “What was tricky?”
• “What can I try next time?”

This builds self-awareness and resilience, helping children become active participants in their learning.

5. Generalization to Real Life

One of the key strengths of goal-directed training is its focus on real-world application. Therapists work with children in natural settings—at home, school, or in the community—to ensure that skills transfer beyond the therapy room.

Family Involvement

Parents and caregivers are essential partners in the program. You’ll be involved in:

• Setting goals and priorities.
• Supporting practice at home.
• Celebrating progress and problem-solving challenges.

Therapists provide coaching and resources to help you reinforce learning in everyday routines, making therapy more effective and sustainable.

What Children Learn

Depending on their goals, children may develop skills in areas such as:

• Self-care: Dressing, hygiene, eating.
• Motor coordination: Handwriting, sports, play.
• Executive functioning: Planning, organizing, time management.
• Social participation: Joining in play, following group rules.
• Independence: Managing tasks, making choices, solving problems.

These skills are not just about completing tasks—they’re about building confidence, autonomy, and a sense of achievement.

Success Stories

Families who’ve participated in the Goal-Directed Training Program at SLCN often share powerful stories of growth and transformation. One parent said:

"My son used to avoid anything that felt hard. Through goal-directed training, he learned to break tasks into steps and keep trying. Now he’s proud of what he can do—and so are we."

Another shared:

"We set a goal for our daughter to join a group game at school. With support, she practiced the steps and built her confidence. Now she’s playing with friends every day."

How to Access the Program

SLCN offers flexible options to suit your family’s needs:

• In-home sessions across Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs.
• School-based support in collaboration with educators.
• Clinic appointments in Derrimut.
• Online therapy available Australia-wide.

The program can be integrated into your child’s existing therapy plan or delivered as a standalone module. It’s suitable for children aged 3 and up, with content adapted for different developmental stages.

Why Choose SLCN?

At Supporting Learning for Children with Needs, the team is passionate about helping children thrive. The Goal-Directed Training Program reflects SLCN’s commitment to:

• Personalized care: Every child’s journey is unique.
• Evidence-based practice: Grounded in research and best practice.
• Family partnership: You’re part of the team.
• Real-world impact: Skills that matter in everyday life.

Led by Brent Connolly, a paediatric speech pathologist with deep expertise in child development, SLCN brings together professionals from occupational therapy, psychology, education, and speech pathology to deliver holistic, integrated care.

Ready to Help Your Child Reach Their Goals?

If you’re interested in the Goal-Directed Training Program, SLCN offers free consultations to explore your child’s needs and aspirations. Visit www.slcn.com.au to learn more or book an appointment.

Empower your child to take the next step—whether it’s tying their shoes, joining a game, or mastering a new skill—with SLCN’s Goal-Directed Training Program.