Media Centre

Baptcare's new Learn, Play, Talk program gets kids talking

Publish Date: 29/04/2008
Author: Marketing and Communications Dept.

Abercare’s Early Years - Learn, Play, Talk program is an exciting new initiative supporting families in the western suburbs of Melbourne. These families are on a Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (DEECD) waiting list for essential services for their preschool children with autism or language and/or developmental delays.

Baptcare is self-funding the program for an initial two years in an attempt to meet the extensive need in the region and help relieve pressures on the waiting list. After this period, the future of the program will become uncertain if recurrent annual funding is not received.

“The Early Years program is currently providing vital support for families who would otherwise still be waiting for a service, but we need the support of the community and the government to ensure that the program continues,” Baptcare Chief Executive, Jeff Davey said.

Without this program, many children on the DEECD waiting list will not receive assistance before commencing primary school, which will not only affect the individual child, but will also place additional pressure on the school system.

John Laursen, a parent of a child in Abercare’s new program has described the service as a “lifeline”.

“The program has helped our three year old autistic son to verbalise what he wants and has helped him with normal interaction, reducing tension, stress and anxiety on his behalf, and also on our behalf, as parents”, said Mr Laursen.

The program involves three tiers of service. The first is based on the Hanen model, where a certified Speech Pathologist helps parents create and take advantage of everyday opportunities to help their child communicate and use language.

Secondly, an Outreach Home Visiting Service uses Abercare’s Early Childhood Educator to work one-on-one within the families’ homes to help them implement strategies to enhance their child’s development.

Thirdly, the program provides case management to families which ensures the family has sufficient support for the duration of the program.

"Families with children that have special needs often feel very isolated. The program provides opportunities for parents to meet with others in similar circumstances and gain support through that contact," said Ms Robyn Garnett, the Speech Pathologist and Counsellor employed by Baptcare to facilitate the Hanen Programs.

Abercare is currently lobbying to the government to gain future funding for the program, and needs the support of the community. To join the campaign and help ensure this program can continue, call Abercare on 9373 3800.