We spent the first few years just surviving with our son, and teaching him the basics like how to roll, sit and the rest is history. During this time your head is spinning, and you are walking around in circles. Lack of sleep and acceptance to add to all the confusion. You know you need help but where do you start, and who has the time or the energy. We have put together a list of what is out there to help others, and reduce the stress a little during the first years.
This is definitely not an exhaustive list, as we are still learning, but a good start! Lets use this forum to keep adding and updating with changes. Any feedback or suggestion/s appreciated. If you are unable to leave a comment just email info@writbitz.com.au.
Okay you have received a diagnosis. You knew something was not quite right, and now its confirmed. A diagnosis is just that, as each child has such individual talents, the next thing is to work with them, with the support of others, and bring out their strengths. Please take up what you are entitled to, and don't burn yourself out.
The names of the programs/facilites & $$ will change over time, so any feedback from each of us to maintain this information, will help us ALL!
With great power, comes great responsibility. You will be able to access some, or all of the following!
* Carers Allowance = $110 per fortnight which is paid to the carer through Centrelink.
* Carers Payment - This will largely depend on the circumstances. Refer to the Centrelink link below or contact them. http://www.centrelink.gov.au/internet/internet.nsf/payments/carer_child_eligible.htm
* Health Care card Apply through Centrelink.
* Disability Parking permit Depending on the circumstances you may be entitled to Diability parking permit, after your child turns three.
* Disability Services within your state. Google or contact Disability Services and sign up your child as soon as you know. This will give you the support in regards to relevant therapists to act on early intervention, to give your child the best start in life. They also have support for you the carer which is vital.
* Autism Advisor Program If your child has any diagnosis of Autism spectrum disorder, or if they don't but you feel you can tick all the boxes within the disorder, make an appointment with your paediatrician to seek a diagnosis, and if enough boxes ticked a letter confirming the diagnosis provided which now gives you leverage for more funding. Contact the "Autism Advisor Program" as a national body. In Queensland the program is "The Helping Children with Autism Package." You can receive funding of $6,000 per financial year, up to $12,000 in total or more (if you are remote or regional, special circumstances).
* Treatment Twenty free Approved therapist visits in total up to age 15 (not per annum ) through medicare.
* Enhanced Primary Care Have your GP prepare a "Care Plan" so you can claim five free approved therapist visits per year through medicare.
* The better access to Mental health Professionals Plan Up to 12 visits per year to a psychologist or other mental health professional, OT or Social worker - No age limits through medicare.
NB Speak to your GP and refer Medicare for eligibility and criterias
* Respite - You can speak to the Commonwealth Respite 1800 052 222. They will give you local respite centres nearby. You can have up to (4)hours per week/month inhome care so that your child feels safe and maintains his/her routine. You and your partner can confidently go and do WHATEVER floats your boat to revitalise. These groups can also seek funding to allow overnight stays from time to time. You need to ensure you use this service, as over time your child depending on the severity, will make friends, and go on outings, and camps so they get familiar with the carer/s you choose. Excellent service!! My husband and I go out on date nights once per month. Our two rules are that it needs to be cheapskape Tuesday, and close to home...
* Childcare services - Inclusive Support - You can seek help within the centre to give your child extra care, and it was called "Ïnclusive Support". Tell the childcare that your child has special needs, don't we all, and that you have researched the Inclusive support, and wish for them to apply on your behalf.
* ECDP - Early Childhood Development Program - This service is from 0-5. You will need to ask what centres are in your areas.
* Playgroup 0-3
* Kindy program 3-4
* Pre prep 4-5
* Prep 5 Special school program (assessment completed) or mainstream. Your choice provided your child accepted into program. You are not committed to anything, and will be kept well informed with your childs progress. Even when accepted into Special School program, assessments are done regularly as this does not mean they will stay in Special School. Our view was it did not matter what the learning facility was called, we were seeking the right environment for our son to learn, play and feel safe in.
