Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services

My child has autism:

information for Queensland families
of young children
The State of Queensland (Department of Communities, Child Safety and
Disability Services) 2012
Copyright protects this publication. Excerpts may be reproduced with
acknowledgement to the State of Queensland (Department of Communities,
Child Safety and Disability Services).
Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services
GPO Box 806
Brisbane Q 4001
All images in this document are for illustrative purposes only.
Photo credits: iStockphoto (pp. 6, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 18, 21, 25, 26, front cover);
Vicki Yen (p. 13, 19); Tony Phillips (p. 14, 28); Michael Marston (p. 20);
Fotosearch (p. 24); Ray Cash (p. 29).
Message from the Minister
The Honourable Tracy Davis MP
Minister for Communities, Child Safety
and Disability Services
Learning your child has autism raises
many questions, especially about what
supports and services are available.
Access to services during the early
years is critical to supporting families
and their children with autism to achieve
developmental milestones.
My child has autism is a guide for families
of young children with autism about their
childs development and the services
available to them.
It also provides practical tips for parents
to best support their childs inclusion in
family and community life.
There is growing demand for specialist
services for children with autism and
their families. The Newman government
is committed to revitalising all front-line
services and giving children with autism
the best possible start in life.
As part of this commitment to improving
direct services to families, this
government will be delivering more
assistance to families of very young
children through our Parent Connect
initiative. We are also increasing the
number of speech and language
pathologists for all children with a
disability in Queensland schools.
I would like to thank Autism Queensland,
AEIOU Foundation, Umbrella Network
and Cairns Autism Spectrum Group for
their contribution to this guide.
I look forward to enabling a better future
for Queensland families of children with
autism.
3 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
Message from
AEIOU Foundation
The AEIOU Foundation is committed to supporting
children with autism and their families. With many
different services available, parents and carers often
have to research how to access care, therapy and
education for their children.
We hope that My child has autism: information for
Queensland families of young children proves to be
a useful guide for parents and carers. It is important
to provide accessible information for families about
the different services that will best ft their needs.
We commend the department for creating this
publication and for their continued investment into
early intervention for children with autism, improving
access to care and education all over Queensland.
Message from
Autism Queensland
Autism Queensland is pleased to endorse this vital
collaborative booklet for parents of young children
with autism. The booklet represents the combined
knowledge and expertise in early development
of the key autism agencies in Queensland,
both government and non-government.
This booklet is an essential resource for families
of children aged birth to eight years who receive
a diagnosis of autism. The booklet will guide
and support families as they navigate their way
through the important early years of their childs
development.
Penny Beeston
Chief Executive Offcer
Autism Queensland
Alan Smith
Chief Executive Offcer
AEIOU Foundation
4
1. About Autism Spectrum Disorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2. Diagnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3. Early intervention services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
4. Early childhood education and care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
5. Starting school . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
6. Service and resource directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Contents
5 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
6
1. About Autism Spectrum Disorder
This booklet is intended to answer some of the
questions that you as parents may have if you have
concerns your child has autism or your child has
recently been diagnosed with autism. Importantly,
it shows that there is help at hand for you, your child
and your family.
Autism Spectrum Disorder describes a cluster of
disorders including: Autistic Disorder, Aspergers
Disorder (also known as Aspergers Syndrome),
Pervasive Developmental Disorder not-otherwise-
specifed, Retts Disorder and Childhood
Disintegrative Disorder.
In this booklet, the term autism is used to refer to
Autism Spectrum Disorder, except in circumstances
where it is technically required.
Autism Spectrum Disorder is caused by an
abnormality of brain development, and is usually
detected in early childhood (such as Autistic
Disorder) and lasts throughout a persons life.
However, for some children, it may not be apparent
until as late as adolescence as is sometimes the
case with Aspergers Disorder.
There is no known cause for autism and currently
no cure, however, our understanding of autism is
continuing to evolve with new research.
Autism will affect each child differently.
Some children with autism will need lifelong
supports and services and others will be able to
achieve academically and socially.
Children with autism have problems with:
social interactions relating to other
people, understanding non-verbal cues
and body language
communication delays in spoken language,
repetitive use of language and lack of
make-believe play
restricted and repetitive behaviours narrow
areas of interest and adherence to routines.
As a parent, you should have the same aspirations
for your child with autism as you would for your
other children. Your child will beneft greatly from
their family encouraging them to develop their
strengths, skills and interests, which will help
them to learn, communicate and socialise with
other people.
Accessing early intervention services and supports
can help both your child with autism and your family
have quality of life.
7 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
The number of children diagnosed with autism
has increased signifcantly over the past 15 years.
However, it is unknown if this is a result of an
actual increase in the number of children with
autism (prevalence rate) or whether it is a result
of improved practices in diagnosis and increased
public awareness about autism.
How common is autism?
It is estimated that between 1 in 100
1
and 1 in 160
2

children has autism, making it more common than
many other childhood conditions. There are gender
differences in the occurrence of autism. Boys are
four times more likely than girls to have Autistic
Disorder, and boys are nine times more likely than
girls to have Aspergers Disorder.
Tips for parents about autism
For more information about autism visit:
Disability Online: www.qld.gov.au/disability
Autism Queensland: www.autismqld.com.au
AEIOU: www.aeiou.org.au
Raising Children Network:
www.raisingchildren.net.au
1. Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, United States, 2006,
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/ss5810a1.htm
2. McDermott, S, et al., 2006, The Prevalence of Autism in Australia, a report prepared for the Autism Advisory Board on Autism Spectrum
Disorders.
8
2. Diagnosis
The early years are the most critical for your childs
development. It is the time when the brain is still
developing and is more responsive to therapies
and interventions. Having your child assessed and
diagnosed as having autism will enable access to
necessary early intervention services, which aim to
improve your childs social and emotional abilities
and provide information and support for you,
as parents, about caring for your child.
The diagnosis of conditions on the autism
spectrum is based on observations of social and
communication diffculties, narrow interest areas
and rigid and repetitive behaviours.
Autism can be diagnosed in children as young as
18 months of age. If you notice delays in your childs
development, or your child is developing unusual
behaviours, you should discuss your concerns
with a doctor (GP) or child health nurse. This may
result in a referral to a medical specialist, such as a
paediatrician, for further advice or a diagnosis.
Tips for parents diagnosis
To learn about how your child should
be developing for their age, read about
developmental milestones on the
Queensland Health website at
www.health.qld.gov.au/cchs/
For information on diagnosis and
services for children with autism,
visit www.raisingchildren.net.au
9 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
There is no medical test, such as a blood test or
brain scan, for diagnosing autism. A diagnosis
is based on information provided about a childs
development, observing their behaviour, and the
use of educational and psychological tests.
In Queensland, paediatricians assess and diagnose
children with autism. Input to diagnosis may
be sought from speech language pathologists,
occupational therapists and psychologists.
A doctor (GP) or a Child Health Nurse, based at a
community health centre, can provide a referral to
a paediatrician.
Paediatricians can be seen privately or through the
public health system. There will usually be costs for
private paediatricians, however, waiting times for an
appointment may be shorter. The consultation will
be at no cost if it is with a paediatrician in the public
health system.
Who provides a diagnosis of autism in Queensland?
Child psychiatrists also diagnose autism however,
this is usually for older children.
Families living in rural and remote areas can access
a visiting Queensland Health paediatrician.
For information on how to access visiting
paediatricians and other key services to obtain a
diagnosis (particularly in rural and remote areas of
the state), please see page 33 for contact details of
Local Area Coordinators or Child Connect Offcers.
Tips for parents diagnosis
Keep a diary or video situations where
you notice your child behaves differently
from other children, e.g. at playgroup,
to discuss with your GP, Child Health Nurse
or paediatrician.
Even though you may not have a diagnosis
yet, you can encourage your childs
development through play and helping your
child communicate and develop social skills.
10
After diagnosis
It is not unusual for parents to feel overwhelmed
when they frst learn about their childs diagnosis of
autism. Even if you have suspected for some time
that your child may have autism, it is important to
recognise that you are likely to need extra support.
You may get this support from your family and
friends, but it is also good to talk to your GP and
fnd out about local parent support groups.
When your child receives a diagnosis of autism,
a number of things will happen. Options for
treatment will be explored and a treatment plan
will be developed. You will receive information on
the services and supports available in your local
community.
Helping Children with Autism Package
Children who receive a diagnosis of autism before
their sixth birthday are eligible for supports and
services through the Australian Government Helping
Children with Autism Package. After diagnosis,
you will need to contact an Autism Advisor who
will provide information about eligibility, funding
available for early intervention and other support
services.
Tips for parents diagnosis
For information about the
Helping Children with Autism Package,
visit www.fahcsia.gov.au/autism
To contact an Autism Advisor contact
Autism Queensland on 1800 428 847 or
visit www.autismqld.com.au
If you are concerned about your childs
diagnosis or would just like another opinion,
there is nothing wrong with getting a second
opinion. This may confrm the original
diagnosis or it may identify other issues with
your childs development.
11 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
Families of children under seven years of age will
also be eligible to access the Early Days workshops
(see Tips for parents), which are available as face-
to-face and online workshops and are provided
through the Helping Children with Autism Package.
Early Days face-to-face workshops provide
information about choosing therapies, interventions
and available services as well as assisting families
through the early days of diagnosis.
Early Days online workshops help families by
equipping them with the skills to promote their
childs early development. They also provide
information on various topics such as managing
stress, supporting siblings and sleep.
As part of the Helping Children with Autism
Package, the Australian Government has made new
Medicare items (which attract a Medicare rebate),
such as occupational therapy, speech language
pathology and psychology services, available for
children aged up to 13 years for diagnosis and
treatment planning.
Tips for parents diagnosis
To fnd out about the Early Days workshops,
contact Autism Queensland on 1800 428 847
Early Days online workshops can be
accessed at www.prc.moodle.com.au/course
Supports are also available prior to diagnosis
through the Early Days workshops and
PlayConnect Playgroup. They provide
information about autism, things you can do
before a diagnosis and opportunities to meet
other parents.
For information on PlayConnect Playgroups,
visit www.playgroupaustralia.com.au
12
Children with autism are more likely to have other
problems such as sleep diffculties, restricted diet,
epilepsy and tantrums. Discuss these issues with
your GP or paediatrician as these associated
problems may be able to be successfully treated.
Should your child receive a diagnosis of autism,
you may be eligible for additional assistance such
as a Carers Payment, Carers Allowance or Child
Disability Assistance Payment.
A range of information resources about the supports
and services available for families of young children
with a disability, including children with autism,
is being made progressively available on the
departments Disability Online website.
These information resources will also be provided to
doctors, specialists and hospital staff to assist with
linking families to the right supports and services in
their local area.
Tips for parents diagnosis
For more information on additional
assistance, payments or allowances
available from the Australian Government,
visit www.centrelink.gov.au
Autism Queensland Information and Helpline
offers expert autism-specifc advice fve days
a week. They can be contacted on
(07) 3273 0000 or email
outreachservices@autismqld.com.au
13 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
3. Early intervention services
Early intervention services are important for children
with autism to help them develop skills in play,
communication, social relationships and functional
behaviours. Services can also assist in increasing
childrens independence and ability to adapt to
their environment. Early intervention helps children
with autism develop the skills needed to participate
in child care and kindergarten and improves their
readiness for school.
Early intervention services provide a range of
supports for families of children with a disability or
developmental delay, including children with autism,
from birth to school entry.
These services include:
information and planning
advice on the childs developmental needs
multidisciplinary therapy to support the childs
development and help reach developmental
milestones
referrals to other specialist services and
mainstream services
coordination of services for children with
complex needs
support with transitioning to a kindergarten
program and school
counselling and linking families with other
families and support groups.
Tips for parents early intervention
Discuss with your childs therapists and
teachers the things you would like your child
to learn, e.g. improving attention, following
instructions, changing routines, learning
communication and social skills.
Talk to your childs therapist about your
childs interests and strengths and ideas for
incorporating these into home activities,
e.g. suitable computer games for a child who
likes computers.
14
How will my child beneft from early intervention?
Early intervention for children with autism is most
effective and provides the best possible outcomes
for children when provided as early as possible
after diagnosis.
Early intervention services should be tailored to
the individual needs of the child and their family.
It is important for you as a parent to have a good
rapport with the therapists and feel able to ask
lots of questions about your childs therapy and their
progress.
Early intervention services provide you and your
family with the knowledge, skills and support to
meet the needs of your child, optimise your childs
development and increase their ability to participate
in family and community life. All services recognise
the importance of working in partnership
with families. Ideally, services are provided in a
fexible way that meets the needs of as many
families as possible.
Successful early intervention services may involve
professionals working directly with your child as
well as teaching you strategies to support your child
to develop their potential. Professionals should
spend time with you working on goals that can
be incorporated into your family routines and play
activities. This is particularly important for families
whose children are unable to attend centre-based
programs, for example families living in rural and
remote areas.
Tips for parents early intervention
You will learn from your childs therapists
and teachers how to meet your childs needs,
however, remember that your child is a
child frst and life should not revolve around
therapy.
15 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
Where can I access early intervention supports?
Autism Early Intervention Initiative
Children with autism up to age six can access early
intervention services through the Autism Early
Intervention Initiative, funded by the Department of
Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services.
This service is provided through Autism Queensland
and the AEIOU Foundation.
Autism Queensland
Autism Queensland (AQ) provides a range of early
intervention services to children with autism and
their families, including multidisciplinary centre-
based education and therapy programs, home-
and community-based programs and family support
programs, which provide links with other families.
These services are based in Cairns, Mackay,
Rockhampton, Gladstone and Brisbane (Sunnybank
and Brighton).
Early intervention services are provided in
AQ centres, the childs home or other early
childhood setting such as child care or kindergarten.
Parent coaching and support are a signifcant
component of AQ services.
AEIOU Foundation
The AEIOU Foundation (AEIOU) is an approved
child care provider, delivering an intensive
multidisciplinary early intervention program for
children with autism.
Children can access this program part-time
(2.5 days a week) or full-time (5 days a week).
AEIOU centres are located at Gold Coast,
Brisbane (Nathan, Camira, Bray Park), Sunshine
Coast (Sippy Downs), Toowoomba, Hervey Bay,
Bundaberg, Emerald and Townsville. For more
information about AEIOU services, see page 24.
Both AQ and AEIOU provide outreach services to
children and their families in regional areas.
Tips for parents early intervention
You can continue your childs therapy at
home through play using the same words
and instructions as the therapist, and helping
your child practise social skills. This will help
your child learn more quickly.
For more information on Autism Queensland
visit www.autismqld.com.au or AEIOU
Foundation, visit www.aeiou.org.au
16
Family and Early Childhood Service
Children aged up to six years who have a
developmental delay or who are at risk of having a
developmental delay, including children with autism,
can receive early intervention services from the
departments Family and Early Childhood Service.
This service assists families with information and
planning, multidisciplinary therapy, referrals to other
specialist and mainstream services, counselling,
linking with other families and support groups and
transition to child care, kindergarten and Prep.
Early Childhood Development Programs
and Services
The Department of Education, Training and
Employment provides multidisciplinary therapy
and early intervention services to children from
birth to prior-to-Prep age who have a suspected
or diagnosed disability with signifcant educational
needs, including children with autism.
Child Development Services
Queensland Health provides early intervention
services to children with a moderate to severe
developmental delay or disability, including children
with autism. Services include information and
advice on developmental needs of children and
multidisciplinary therapy services that encourage
childrens development. Priority is given to children
not eligible to receive services from other agencies.
Information for parents early intervention
Tablet computers are being trialled as
an assistive communication device for
people with complex communication needs,
including children with autism.
The computer touchscreen is used to
access 31 applications and tools, which
accommodate a range of needs and
interests. The trial is being conducted by the
Department of Communities, Child Safety
and Disability Services and the outcomes will
inform future service delivery.
Tips for parents early intervention
For more information about Early Childhood
Development Programs and Services,
visit www.education.qld.gov.au/schools
For information about Queensland Health
services, visit www.health.qld.gov.au
17 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
Helping Children with Autism Package
The Australian Governments Helping Children
with Autism (HCWA) Package provides access
to funding of up to $12,000 up until a childs seventh
birthday (with $6,000 the maximum that can be
spent per fnancial year).
This funding is used to support access to
multidisciplinary early intervention programs and
therapy services (speech language pathology,
occupational therapy and psychology services)
and resources considered essential for the childs
therapy.
To access these services a child must have
received a diagnosis and be registered with the
Autism Advisor Program before their sixth birthday.
Families living in outer regional or remote areas
may be able to access a one-off payment of $2,000
to help access early intervention services.
Tips for parents early intervention
Information about the Australian
Government HCWA initiative is available
at www.fahcsia.gov.au/autism
To contact an Autism Advisor,
call Autism Queensland on 1800 428 847.
The Autism Advisors can also provide
information on approved private therapy
providers in your local area.
18
4. Early childhood education and care
What are early childhood education and
care services?
Early Childhood Education and Care Services
include child care and kindergarten services.
Children can attend approved child care services
from birth and all children are eligible to attend
a kindergarten program in the year before they
commence school (Prep). The Queensland
Government provides funding support to approved
kindergarten programs delivered in long-day care
or kindergarten services.
The early years of any childs life have a signifcant
impact on their future health, development, learning
and wellbeing. It is generally accepted that children
who participate in early childhood education are
likely to have better academic performance,
better behaviour, and stay in education for longer.
By age three, children with autism are most likely to
show diffculties in communicating, problem-solving
and with social interaction.
Participating in a quality early childhood education
and care program can provide children with autism
opportunities to develop their social, communication
and play skills from an early age.
19 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
How will my child beneft from
child care?
What supports are available for my child
to attend child care?
Child care can provide you as a parent with
opportunities to return to work, study or to have time
with other members of your family.
Child care provides all children an early opportunity
to relate to peers and other adults. This is no
different for children with autism. It can also
be an opportunity for you to receive input from
qualifed early childhood professionals and try
new approaches to supporting the development of
children with autism.
The Australian Government supports children
with disabilities who attend child care through
the Inclusion and Professional Support Program.
This support may be available to:
subsidise the cost of additional educators
or carers
provide access to specialist equipment to assist
inclusion
provide professional development and resources
for educators.
Tips for parents early childhood education
and care
Consider enrolling your child in child care,
even if only for a few hours a week. This
may help to develop your childs play and
social skills and their ability to adapt to new
environments.
You can get information about early
childhood education and care services at
www.deta.qld.gov.au/earlychildhood
For information about the Australian
Governments Inclusion and Professional
Support Program and supports for parents
visit www.mychild.gov.au
20
How will my child beneft from a kindergarten program?
All children beneft from participating in an approved
quality early education program, including children
with autism.
Participation in a kindergarten program can help
your child to develop skills in communication, social
interaction and behaviour. It can also assist your
child to follow routines, as well as provide exposure
to early literacy and numeracy concepts.
Participation in a kindergarten program will
give your child a greater chance of successfully
transitioning into Prep and then into mainstream
schooling.
Kindergarten programs offer play-based learning
in a fun and nurturing environment.
All children beneft from these early learning
experiences and develop abilities including:
being involved and learning to interact with
other children
developing a desire to learn as well as ways of
getting involved in learning
understanding and managing their feelings
learning about themselves, developing their
identity, confdence and independence
building communication skills.
Tips for parents early childhood education
and care
Find out where the kindergarten programs
are in your area.
Talk to the kindergarten teachers and
other parents to fnd out how they support
the inclusion of children with autism in
kindergarten programs.
For more information about kindergarten
programs in your area, visit www.qld.gov.au/
education.
21 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
How will my child be supported in a kindergarten program?
Kindergarten teachers in kindergarten services and
long-day care services can access support to assist
children with autism to participate in their programs.
Children with a disability, including children
with autism, can receive additional supports to
participate in a kindergarten program. Commencing
in the 2012 school year, kindergarten services
can apply under the Disability Support Funding
Program, Department of Education, Training
and Employment, to receive additional funding
to support your childs participation in their
kindergarten program.
These additional supports may include:
equipment and play resources
training and professional development for
kindergarten teachers
extra teacher aide time to support the childs
inclusion in the kindergarten program.
Kindergarten programs in long-day care services
may be eligible for the Australian Governments
Inclusion and Professional Support Program,
which provides professional development and other
assistance to child care services supporting children
with additional needs.
Kindergarten teachers can modify the kindergarten
program to support the inclusion of your child. The
wider kindergarten community can also be provided
with information about autism to encourage
inclusion of your child and your family in the service.
Tips for parents early childhood education
and care
For information about the Disability Support
Funding Program, visit
www.deta.qld.gov.au/earlychildhood
Link your therapist or early intervention
provider with your childs kindergarten
teacher to help plan your childs program and
identify the supports they will need.
22
How do I plan my childs transition into a kindergarten program?
Starting in a kindergarten program involves a
signifcant transition for children with autism and
their families.
Your child will need a period of preparation before
they start in a kindergarten program, support
to settle in and ongoing support to ensure your
childs needs are being met and they are achieving
educational goals.
Successful transition planning requires a team
approach with your family and the kindergarten
teacher, which should begin 6 to 12 months before
your child starts in the service.
Transition planning for your child to start their
kindergarten program involves a range of activities
including enrolment, working with the kindergarten
teacher to plan a suitable program for your child
and help to identify the additional supports needed,
including educational and play equipment
and training.
Transition planning also involves activities with your
child including visits to the kindergarten program
to become more familiar with the environment and
routines, and gradually adjusting routines at home
to be similar to those they will experience in the
kindergarten program.
Tips for parents early childhood education
and care
To help with your childs transition to a
kindergarten program you can:
learn about the activities and routine in
the kindergarten program and introduce a
similar routine at home for your child, so they
become familiar with these activities and
the routine
take photos or a video of your childs
kindergarten program and new kindergarten
teacher. Show your child and talk about
starting in their kindergarten program in the
lead-up to their frst day.
23 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
The AEIOU Foundation (AEIOU) is an approved
child care provider, offering part-time and full-time
early education programs for children with autism
aged two-and-a-half to fve years.
Programs provided to children with autism
through the AEIOU centres are tailored to the
childrens individual interests, abilities and
support requirements. They focus on fostering
independence and self-confdence in children with
autism. Children with autism have the opportunity
to participate in structured large and small group
activities, circle time and exploratory play options.
AEIOU provides services from 15 centres located
across Queensland, with most centres providing
long-day care. These centres are staffed with
multidisciplinary teams, including early childhood
teachers, speech language pathologists,
occupational therapists and music therapists.
Transition to Prep or school can be a diffcult time
for children with autism. AEIOU works with the child,
the family and the school to plan and implement
a successful transition into either mainstream
schooling or other educational settings.
AEIOU also offers an education support program
for children with autism who require support beyond
the early years of learning. Individualised support
is provided within the learning environment for
children with autism in the early and primary years
of education.
Outreach services are provided by AEIOU to
children and their families in regional areas.

AEIOU Foundation services
24
5. Starting school
Starting school is an important time for children
and families. The transition to school may present
challenges for your child, as well as for the rest of
your family, and so good planning for the transition
is critical.
As a parent, you play a vital role in your childs
education. By getting involved in the school, you
can help your child make a smooth and happy start
to their education.
Where can I enrol my child?
All children are able to enrol at a local state school.
You will need to complete enrolment forms and may
be asked to have an interview with a staff member.
Choosing a school for your child is an important
decision, so it may be important to talk to other
parents who have children at the school you are
considering.
Tips for parents starting school
Parents should consider all available school
options for their child with autism.
It is helpful to visit all schools you are
interested in and talk to the principal and
other parents before making a decision.
Contact details for schools in your local area
are available at www.education.qld.gov.au/
directory
25 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
Is my child ready for Prep?
Prep is offered in all state schools as a full fve day
per week program. To be eligible for Prep a child
must turn fve by 30 June in the year they start Prep.
With the introduction of the Australian Curriculum,
full-time attendance in Prep gives students,
including students with autism, the foundation they
need for successful learning in Year 1.
If you are concerned that your child with autism is
not ready to start Prep at that time, you can choose
to start your child a year later when they become of
compulsory school age (6 years and 6 months).
You should discuss the specifc needs of your child
with the principal of the school you plan to enrol
your child in. The principal will help you determine
the impact of delaying your childs entry into Prep.
Parents of compulsory school age children have
a legal obligation to ensure that their children are
enrolled in school and attend every day of the
educational program in which they are enrolled.
Enrolment and full-time attendance at Prep fulfls
this obligation.
Tips for parents starting school
For more information regarding delayed entry
to Prep visit www.deta.qld.gov.au/initiatives
26
How can I prepare my child for school?
Beginning school is a big step for all children and
their families. Children develop at different rates
and in different ways. It is important to show your
child with autism that you believe they are ready for
school and not show that you are worried.
We recommend that you contact your local school
in the year before you enrol your child to discuss
your childs individual needs. This will give the
school time for planning to ensure your child has a
successful and positive start to schooling. If you are
concerned about your childs readiness for school,
discuss this with the school of your choice and your
early intervention service provider.
If your child has been receiving services from
an early childhood intervention service or a
kindergarten program, staff from these services can
provide information to the school about your childs
strengths and needs, which will assist with the
transition process.
There are a number of things you can do to help
prepare your child for transitioning to school.
This should include visiting the new school many
times before starting school, initially during quiet
times of the day possibly before or after school
hours and later at busier times so your child
becomes familiar with the school environment at
different times of the day.
Tips for parents starting school
Visual supports are useful to prepare your
child for school, such as photos of your
childs new teacher and their new classroom.
Also graphic organisers, calendars and
checklists can be used.
Visual timetables are good to help your child
adjust to a new activity or routine such as
helping your child get ready for school in the
mornings.
For more information on preparing for school,
visit www.education.qld.gov.au/strategic
27 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
How will my child be supported to learn at school?
The Australian Curriculum Foundation Year has
been developed to give students in Prep the
important foundational learning they will need for
successful progression to Year 1. No Queensland
child can afford to miss out on this important year.
The Australian Curriculum commenced in
Queensland in the 2012 school year. It aims to
provide a high-quality curriculum for all, while
understanding the diverse and complex nature
of students with disabilities. It is shaped by the
proposition that each student can learn and the
needs of every student are important.
The principal is responsible for ensuring that
all students with a disability are provided with
appropriate adjustments to enable them to access
the curriculum. When required, students with autism
can be supported through appropriate adjustments
made by teachers and schools in relation to:
what a student learns
how the student learns and
instructional processes
how the student demonstrates what they
have learned.
Tips for parents starting school
Parents are encouraged to read up
on the new Australian Curriculum at
www.qsa.qld.edu.au or
www.australiancurriculum.edu.au
Further information is available regarding
educational adjustments for children with a
disability at www.education.qld.gov.au
Education for children with a disability
a guide for parents provides information
on supports available for children with a
disability in state schools.
Access the guide online at
www.education.qld.gov.au/studentservices or
www.education.qld.gov.au/strategic/advice
28
It is recognised that some students with autism will
require additional educational support so they are
able to access and participate at school alongside
their same age peers.
These students can be supported through the
full array of student support services allocated to
regions and schools. This may include assistive
technology, alternative format material, special
provisions for assessment, and access to
specialist teachers, speech language pathologists,
physiotherapists, occupational therapists and
guidance offcers.
Collaboration with parents is an important part of
the process of identifying and responding to the
individual needs of students with autism.
For specifc information regarding what your child
will be learning at your chosen school, you should
contact the principal.
Tips for parents starting school
Having good communication with your
childs teacher will help your child to have a
successful education experience.
Good communication will also help you and
the teacher to quickly sort out any problems
your child may be experiencing at school.
Work out with your childs teacher how you
are going to communicate, such as through
regular face-to-face meetings, emails or
using a communication book.
29 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
Autism Queensland support for school age children
Independent autism specifc schools
Autism Queensland has two accredited independent
schools located in Brighton and Sunnybank, which
offer tailored education and therapy programs to
children with autism from Prep up to Year 12.
Students with autism are supported in a group of
up to six students according to their age, ability
and needs. Attendance is part-time, for either one,
two or three days a week, for up to two years.
This program enables students to also attend
school for the remainder of the week, ensuring that
connections with peers are maintained.
Students are supported throughout their placement
by a multidisciplinary team including teachers,
teacher aides, social workers, psychologists,
speech language pathologists and occupational
therapists.
The school program aims to develop students
social, communication, adaptive behaviour, daily
living and play and recreation skills through a
modifed academic curriculum, which is linked to the
Australian Curriculum.
Outreach services
Autism Queensland provides outreach services
to students with autism in schools throughout
Queensland, including state, independent and
Catholic sector schools. This service provides
information and support to parents and education
staff to support the childs educational and
developmental outcomes.
To be able to be referred to these outreach services,
your child will need to have an Individualised
Education Plan in place at school. You can contact
Autism Queensland or visit their website to obtain
a School Advisory Visit Request Form.

Tips for parents Autism Queensland
For more information about services
provided by Autism Queensland,
visit www.autismqld.com.au
30
6. Service and resource directory
Information resources
Disability Online
- Family Friendly
Resources
Printed and online family-friendly information resources
about support services available for children with
a disability (including autism) and their families.
www.qld.gov.au/disability
Disability
Information Service
Provides information on disability-specifc topics,
including types of disability, government and
community-based services, government programs
and entitlements, publications and resources.
1800 177 120
www.disability.qld.gov.au
Queensland
Health guide
to developmental
milestones
A general guide for age appropriate development,
which covers areas such as gross motor, fne motor,
talking and understanding, and social and intellectual
skills. The guide also highlights signs of possible
problems.
www.health.qld.gov.au/cchs
Education for
children with a
disability: a guide
for parents
Provides information on schooling for children with a
disability in Queensland and the specialised support
available for students with a disability.
www.education.qld.gov.au
You Are Not Alone:
A Carers Journey
A parents guide on caring for children with disabilities
from birth to six years. It provides advice on services
and shares stories of other parents experiences of
caring for a child with a disability.
www.info4carers.com
Raising Children
Network:
the Australian
parenting website
An online resource that provides information to assist
parents make day-to-day decisions relating to raising
children. The website provides a dedicated section on
children with autism.
www.raisingchildren.net.au
Parent support
groups key contacts
Key contacts for parent support groups throughout
Queensland are available on the Autism Queensland
website. Contact your local Council and talk with your
GP and paediatrician to fnd out about local parent
support groups.
www.autismqld.com.au
31 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
Helping Children
with Autism
An Australian Government initiative to support children
with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Families of children
who receive a diagnosis of autism before their sixth
birthday can contact an Autism Advisor who will provide
information about available funding, eligibility, early
intervention services and other supports.
1800 428 847
www.fahcsia.gov.au
Autism Early
Intervention
Initiative
Provides early intervention services for children with
autism up to six years and their families. The initiative
aims to maximise the development of children with autism
and assist families to develop the strategies necessary
to overcome the long-term challenges of caring for their
child. Services under this initiative are provided by Autism
Queensland and the AEIOU Foundation.
1800 177 120
www.disability.qld.gov.au
Autism Queensland Autism Queensland (AQ) provides a range of supports
to families of children with autism including independent
accredited schools; education; information and training
outreach support; therapy; family support; and linking with
other families and support groups. AQ provides intensive
early intervention supports to children with autism aged
up to six years through centre-based and home-based
programs and outreach services.
(07) 3273 0000
www.autismqld.com.au
AEIOU Foundation The AEIOU Foundation (AEIOU) is an approved child
care provider, delivering an intensive multidisciplinary
early intervention program for children with autism
aged two-and-a-half to fve years. Children can access
this program on a part-time (two-and-a-half days a
week) or full-time (fve days a week) basis. AEIOU also
provides outreach services in some areas of the state.
AEIOU services are available at Gold Coast, Brisbane
(Nathan, Camira, Bray Park), Sunshine Coast (Sippy
Downs),Toowoomba, Hervey Bay, Bundaberg, Emerald
and Townsville.
(07) 3320 7500
www.aeiou.org.au
Early Intervention Services
32
Cootharinga Provides services to children with autism in North
Queensland through multidisciplinary teams including
speech language pathologists, occupational therapists
and therapy assistants. Programs focus on maximising
the childs development, focusing on areas such
as play, social and problem-solving skills.
www.cootharinga.org.au
Family and Early
Childhood Service
Supports families with a child aged up to six years
who has, or is at risk of developing, a signifcant
developmental delay, by providing therapy, family support
and information promoting child development, learning
and inclusion, and increasing family capacity.
1800 177 120
www.disability.qld.gov.au
Local Area
Coordinators
Link children with a disability and their families in
regional, rural and remote areas with supports and
services relating to their individual needs and interests.
1800 177 120
www.disability.qld.gov.au
Child Connect
Offcers
Child Connect Offcers link families of children with a
disability aged birth to eight years with mainstream and
specialist disability services to enhance their access to
early intervention services. Child Connect Offcers are
located in Ipswich and Townsville.
Ipswich: 3381 7437
Townsville: 4799 5250
www.disability.qld.gov.au
Child Development
Services
Provide services to children with autism across the state
through multidisciplinary teams including paediatricians,
child health nurses, psychologists, physiotherapists,
occupational therapists, and speech language
pathologists.
13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84)
www.health.qld.gov.au
Child Health Clinics A statewide Queensland Health initiative providing
assessment, education and support for parents and
caregivers of children up to 12 years of age. Services
include home visits, parenting programs and advice on
child development and behaviour management.
13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84)
www.health.qld.gov.au
33 My child has autism: information for Queensland families of young children
Early Childhood
Development
Programs and
Services
Provides support for children birth to four-and-a-half years
who have a suspected or diagnosed disability and who
have signifcant education support needs. The programs
engage children in learning experiences that maximise
their individual potential and improve their transition into
the early years of schooling.
Contact your local
education district offce
or visit
www.education.qld.gov.au
Kindergarten
Services
Kindergarten programs provide play-based early
education programs for children, including opportunities to
participate in art, music and movement, and develop their
physical abilities and social and language skills as well
as interacting with others. Children with a disability can
receive assistance through the Disability Support Funding
Program to participate in a kindergarten program.
www.deta.qld.gov.au
Early Years Centres Early Years Centres are one-stop shops where early
childhood education and care, family support and health
services are available for families expecting a child or with
children aged up to eight years. Early Years Centres are
operating in Bentley Park (Far North Queensland), Browns
Plains (Brisbane), Caboolture and Nerang.
Bentley Park: 4045 0003
ceyce@bensoc.org.au
Browns Plains:
3088 4177
bpeyc@bensoc.org.au
Caboolture: 5428 1477
www.gowrie-brisbane.
com.au
Nerang: 5578 1346
Bound for Success Supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and
young people in the remote areas of Cape York and the
Torres Strait Islands in accessing education and achieving
academic success. It includes strategies aimed at
facilitating community engagement, improving the quality
of education services and supporting complementary
programs to improve education outcomes.
www.education.qld.gov.au
Early Intervention Services
34
For further information contact the Department of Communities, Child Safety and
Disability Services:
Telephone: freecall 1800 177 120*
Telephone Typewriter (TTY): freecall 1800 010 222*
Email: disabilityinfo@disability.qld.gov.au
Web: www.communities.qld.gov.au
You can fnd this document online at www.qld.gov.au/disability
If you are deaf, or have a hearing impairment or speech impairment, contact us
through the National Relay Service:
TTY users phone 1800 555 677 then ask for 1800 177 120
Speak and Listen users phone 1800 555 727 then ask for 1800 177 120
Internet relay users connect to the NRS (www.relayservice.com.au) and then
ask for 1800 177 120
Other languages and formats:
If you need the assistance of an interpreter, please contact the Translating and
Interpreting Service, TIS National, on 13 14 50 and ask to be connected to the
Disability Information Service.
This document is available in alternative formats (including large print) on
request. If you would like a copy in another format, please contact Disability
Information Service on 1800 177 120* or email disabilityinfo@disability.qld.gov.au
* Calls from mobile phones are charged at applicable rates.
Queenslanders now have access to disability related information at one easy
online location. Visit www.qld.gov.au/disability to fnd out about government
supports and services for people with a disability, their families and carers. The
new site includes links to information about support groups and counselling,
education and where to go to, to get help.
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