Pathways and Resources for Engagement and Participation (PREP)

Every child deserves the chance to participate fully in life—whether it’s playing with friends, joining a sports team, or taking part in school activities. But for children with developmental challenges, these opportunities can sometimes feel out of reach. That’s where the Pathways and Resources for Engagement and Participation (PREP) approach at Supporting Learning for Children with Needs (SLCN) makes a difference.

PREP is a powerful, evidence-based model that focuses on removing barriers and creating opportunities for children to engage in the activities that matter most to them. At SLCN, it’s used to help children and families build meaningful connections, develop confidence, and thrive in their communities.

What Is PREP?

PREP stands for Pathways and Resources for Engagement and Participation. It’s a participation-based intervention model developed by occupational therapists to support children with disabilities in accessing and enjoying everyday life experiences.

Unlike traditional therapy models that focus on changing the child’s skills, PREP focuses on changing the environment and modifying tasks to make participation possible. It’s about asking: What’s getting in the way—and how can we remove it?

PREP is built on three core principles:

1. Client-centered goals – chosen by the child and family.
2. Environmental modification – adapting physical, social, and cultural contexts.
3. Coaching and collaboration – empowering families and communities to support inclusion.

Who Is PREP For?

The PREP approach is ideal for children and teens who:

• Have developmental delays, autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, or learning difficulties.
• Struggle to participate in community, school, or recreational activities.
• Experience social isolation or lack of confidence in group settings.
• Want to be more involved in sports, arts, clubs, or peer interactions.

Whether your child wants to join a dance class, attend a birthday party, or simply play at the park, PREP can help make it happen.

How PREP Works at SLCN

At SLCN, the PREP approach is delivered by a multidisciplinary team of occupational therapists, psychologists, educators, and speech pathologists. The process is highly individualized and typically includes the following steps:

1. Goal Setting

The journey begins with a conversation. Therapists work with you and your child to identify meaningful participation goals. These might include:

• Joining a local soccer team.
• Attending a school camp.
• Playing with peers during recess.
• Participating in a music or art class.

The key is that the goals are chosen by the child, making them personally relevant and motivating.

2. Barrier Identification

Next, therapists explore what’s getting in the way of participation. Barriers might include:

• Physical access (e.g., stairs, noise, lighting).
• Social dynamics (e.g., peer relationships, bullying).
• Communication challenges.
• Lack of inclusive programming or community awareness.

This step involves observation, interviews, and collaboration with families, educators, and community members.

3. Environmental Modification

Rather than focusing on changing the child, PREP focuses on changing the environment. This might involve:

• Adapting the physical space (e.g., seating, lighting, sensory supports).
• Educating peers or coaches about inclusion.
• Providing visual supports or communication aids.
• Adjusting schedules or routines to reduce overwhelm.

Therapists work with families and community partners to implement these changes in a respectful, sustainable way.

4. Coaching and Support

Parents, teachers, and community leaders are coached on how to support the child’s participation. This might include:

• Learning how to scaffold social interactions.
• Using inclusive language and practices.
• Encouraging independence while offering support.

Therapists provide ongoing guidance, encouragement, and problem-solving to help everyone feel confident and capable.

5. Celebrating Success

As the child begins to participate more fully, therapists help families reflect on progress and celebrate achievements. Even small steps—like saying hello to a peer or staying at an activity for five minutes—are recognized as important milestones.

Real-Life Examples

Here are a few ways PREP might look in action at SLCN:

• Liam, a 9-year-old with autism, wanted to join his school’s LEGO club but struggled with noise and group dynamics. Through PREP, the club was given visual rules, a quiet breakout space, and peer buddies. Liam now attends weekly and is thriving.
• Sophie, a 12-year-old with cerebral palsy, wanted to take part in a local art class. The studio was not wheelchair accessible, and the instructor had no experience with inclusive teaching. SLCN therapists worked with the studio to adapt the space and provide training. Sophie now attends independently and has even exhibited her work.
• Ethan, a 6-year-old with ADHD, had difficulty joining in playground games. Through PREP, his teacher introduced structured play options and coached peers on inclusive play. Ethan now plays confidently with classmates every day.

Why PREP Matters

Participation is more than just being present—it’s about belonging, contributing, and feeling valued. Research shows that children who participate in meaningful activities:

• Develop stronger social skills.
• Build confidence and resilience.
• Experience better mental health.
• Are more likely to succeed in school and life.

PREP helps make this possible by focusing on what children can do, not what they can’t.

Family-Centered and Strengths-Based

At SLCN, the PREP approach is deeply aligned with the centre’s values:

• Family-centered care: You are the expert on your child, and your voice matters.
• Strengths-based practice: We focus on what’s possible, not what’s missing.
• Collaboration: We work with schools, clubs, and communities to create inclusive environments.

Therapists at SLCN are passionate about helping children not just learn—but live fully.

How to Access PREP at SLCN

SLCN offers PREP-based support in a variety of formats:

• In-home visits across Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs.
• School-based support in collaboration with educators.
• Community-based coaching with clubs, programs, and local services.
• Clinic appointments in Derrimut.
• Online consultations available Australia-wide.

The process begins with a free consultation, where you can share your child’s goals and explore how PREP might help.

Ready to Help Your Child Participate Fully?

If your child is ready to take the next step toward inclusion, confidence, and connection, the PREP approach at SLCN can help. Visit www.slcn.com.au to learn more or book a consultation.

Let’s open the door to participation—together.