The Federal Government’s decision to give further time for the rollout of the Thriving Kids initiative provides an opportunity to ensure the program works for all children under eight with neurodevelopmental differences, say early childhood experts at The Front Project.
Following Friday’s National Cabinet meeting, Thriving Kids - previously known as Foundational Supports - will be delivered in partnership with states and territories from early October, with full roll out scheduled to be complete by 1 January 2028.
A government report released this morning informed by the Thriving Kids Expert Advisory Group outlines how the initiative can be effectively implemented within existing health, education and social service systems, and calls for continuous collaboration with the early childhood and disability sector.
CEO of The Front Project and Thriving Kids Expert Advisory Group member, Dr Caroline Croser-Barlow, said the delay gives states and territories vital time to make sure this happens.
“Thriving Kids represents a crossroads for the future of children with neurodevelopmental differences,” Dr Croser-Barlow said.
“For too long, children with neurodevelopmental differences and their families have been placed in the ‘too hard’ basket - either directed to the wrong supports or, languishing on waitlists for diagnosis, and receiving no support at all.
“Central to Thriving Kids’ success is a shift away from a heavily medicalised and diagnostic model, towards earlier, integrated supports delivered in the settings where children live, learn and play – including early childhood education and care.
“We know that more and more schools and early childhood settings are integrating child development supports into their everyday practices. This report provides insights into how Thriving Kids might help bridge the gap between inclusive education and therapeutic child development supports through professional support and providing extra time for leaders, teachers and educators.”
Dr Croser-Barlow said the government must now use the delay and expert advisory report to work in partnership with the early childhood sector – particularly the early childhood education and allied health workforces that will be delivering some of these supports - and ensure Thriving Kids delivers timely, inclusive and effective support.
“Early childhood educators want to learn more about providing inclusive care. Government must invest in supporting their capacity to do so.
“Thriving Kids has the potential to transform outcomes for children and families - but only if it is implemented in line with how children actually grow and develop.
“The government now has a clear roadmap and an opportunity to get this right. We look forward to working with them on delivering this potentially transformative initiative,” said Dr Croser-Barlow.
ENDS
Media contact:
Maria Kelly, The Front Project
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