NDIS Early Childhood Intervention Explained

Early intervention has the power to significantly change the developmental path of young children living with delays or disabilities. Through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), families can access targeted support via the Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) approach.

At Curate Care, we specialise in guiding families through the NDIS process, ensuring your child receives the best early start possible. This blog is your complete guide to how early intervention NDIS works, who it’s for, what’s funded, and how to get started.

What Is Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI)?

The ECEI approach is part of the NDIS and provides flexible, needs-based supports to children aged 0 to 6 years with developmental concerns or diagnosed disabilities.

The goal of early intervention is to reduce the impact of developmental challenges and help children reach their full potential. Supports are tailored, family-focused, and can be accessed even without a diagnosis in many cases.

Who Is Early Intervention NDIS For?

Early intervention NDIS services are designed for:

• Children aged 0–6 with a developmental delay

• Children with diagnosed disabilities such as autism, Down syndrome, or global developmental delay

• Families needing NDIS for children under 7

  
  

Children aged 7–9 may also be eligible to transition to full NDIS plans through a streamlined process.

Important: Your child does not need a formal diagnosis to access early NDIS support. Functional impact and developmental milestones are key factors.

What Types of Support Are Funded?

Early intervention funding from the NDIS is highly personalised, but can include:

Therapeutic Supports

• Speech therapy

• Occupational therapy (OT)

• Physiotherapy

• Psychology/play therapy

  
  

Parent and Carer Support

• Training to manage challenging behaviours

• In-home coaching

• Emotional support for families

  
  

Developmental Support

• School readiness programs

• Social and communication skill development

• Fine and gross motor skill activities

  
  

Assistive Technology

• Sensory tools

• Visual communication aids

• Developmental toys or devices

  
  

Home & Community Support

• Early childhood educators in the home

• Support workers for outings or daily routines

• Inclusion in childcare or community activities

  
  

Conditions Often Supported Under ECEI

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (early signs)

• Global Developmental Delay

• Sensory Processing Disorder

• Genetic or chromosomal conditions

• Cerebral palsy (mild cases)

• Speech and language delays

The NDIS Early Childhood Process: Step by Step

Step 1: Contact an Early Childhood Partner

Find your local NDIS Early Childhood Partner. You can contact them directly without needing a referral.

Step 2: Initial Assessment

They’ll assess your child’s needs and may offer short-term supports immediately.

Step 3: Apply for NDIS Access (if needed)

If long-term support is necessary, your partner will help you submit an NDIS Access Request with supporting documentation.

Step 4: Planning Meeting

Once your child is approved, you’ll attend a meeting to set goals and build a personalised NDIS plan.

Step 5: Implement the Plan

With Curate Care, you’ll receive plan management and support coordination to ensure the plan delivers real outcomes for your child.

How Curate Care Supports Your Family

At Curate Care, we provide warm, hands-on assistance to families navigating childhood disability support in Australia. Our personal experience as a family caring for a child with special needs gives us insight and compassion that sets us apart.

Our Early Childhood Services:

• Plan Management: We handle all invoices, budgets, and provider payments so you can focus on your child.

• Support Coordination: We connect you with speech therapists, OTs, educators, and community supports tailored to your child’s needs.

• NDIS Advocacy: We help you prepare for meetings, reviews, and make sure your child’s voice is heard.

  
  

  Based in Western Australia, we serve families across Perth and surrounding areas with personalised, expert support.

  
  

FAQs: NDIS and Early Childhood Intervention

1. What is early childhood early intervention under the NDIS?

It's a model designed to provide quick, effective support for children under 7 with developmental delays, aiming to build foundational skills early in life.

2. Is my child eligible for NDIS if they don’t have a diagnosis yet?

Yes. The ECEI model allows children to access short-term or long-term support without a diagnosis if delays are present.

3. What’s the age limit for ECEI?

Children up to 6 years old can access the ECEI pathway. After age 7, they may transition into a full NDIS plan.

4. What supports can the NDIS fund for young children?

Funding may include therapy (speech, OT), parent training, assistive devices, early learning supports, and social inclusion.

5. How long does it take to get approved?

The process can take a few weeks to a couple of months depending on documentation and demand.

6. Can Curate Care help me apply?

Absolutely. We can assist you with gathering documentation, contacting early childhood partners, and preparing for your NDIS journey.

7. Can I choose my own therapists?

Yes. As a plan-managed participant, you can choose any NDIS-compliant therapist or service that fits your child’s needs.

8. What happens when my child turns 7?

They’ll move from early childhood supports to a full NDIS plan. We’ll guide you through this transition to ensure continuity of care.

Conclusion

Early intervention through the NDIS is one of the most effective ways to support your child’s growth, confidence, and independence. Whether your child has a diagnosis or you’re just beginning to notice delays, support is available.

At Curate Care, we’re here to empower your family and help your child thrive. From managing plans to finding trusted therapists, we simplify the process so you can focus on what matters most—your child’s future.

Contact Curate Care today to learn how early NDIS support can help your little one thrive.