Inclusive care for every child
Inclusive care for every child
Including children with autism, ADHD and other additional needs.
At Country Kidz Preschool in Tongala, we know every child learns, plays and connects in their own way. We welcome children with autism, ADHD and other additional needs, whether or not they have a diagnosis.
Our job is to get to know your child, shape our rooms and routines so every child can join in, and work alongside you and your child’s therapists. We don’t diagnose or provide therapy, but we make sure your child’s day at Country Kidz supports the goals you’re working towards.
Every child, their own wayDay to day
How we support your child
We get to know your child first
Before your child starts, we sit down with you to learn what helps them feel safe, what they enjoy, what they find hard and how they communicate. We use this to plan a settling-in period that suits them, which may include shorter first days.
Predictable routines
Children often feel calmer when they know what comes next. We use visual timetables, picture cards and clear warnings before transitions such as packing away, mealtimes and rest.
Calm spaces
Each room has a quieter corner where children can take a break from noise and activity. Our large outdoor play areas also give children room to move and explore nature.
Communication in many forms
We support spoken words, gestures, signs, pictures and communication devices, and we'll learn the approach your family and therapists already use.
Play built around interests
We use what your child loves, whether trucks, animals, water or numbers, to build skills in play, friendships and early learning.
Movement and sensory needs
Many children learn best when they can move. We build in active play, hands-on activities and sensory experiences, and we adapt group times so your child can take part in their own way.
Mealtimes and rest that work for your child
We work with you on food preferences, sensory sensitivities and rest-time routines.
Partnership
Working together with your family
You know your child best, so we treat you as part of the team.
Regular updates through our parent app, plus time to talk at drop-off and pick-up.
An individual plan with goals you help set, reviewed with you during the year.
Working with your child's professionals. With your permission, we welcome speech pathologists, occupational therapists and other therapists to share strategies or visit the centre.
Help finding support. If you'd like to explore extra support for your child, or our educators notice something worth talking about, we'll chat with you privately and respectfully, and can share information about local assessment and early intervention services. It's always your choice.
Assessment partner
Working with Monarch Autism Assessment
Country Kidz works with Monarch Autism Assessment, a children’s assessment clinic for autism, ADHD and learning differences. Many families tell us the hardest part is knowing where to start. Together, we can make that path simpler:
Start with a conversation. If you have questions about your child's development, our educators can talk them through with you and, if you'd like, give you Monarch's details.
One team, one report. Monarch's paediatrician, psychologist and speech pathologist assess children aged 0 to 18 together and provide one combined report.
Funding options. Assessments can be funded through Medicare rebates, NDIS plan funding or privately. Monarch can explain what applies to your family, such as whether you need a GP referral.
From report to everyday support. With your written permission, Monarch can share its recommendations with our educators, so the strategies that help your child are also part of their day at Country Kidz.
Always your choice. You're welcome to use any assessment service, including your GP or another paediatrician. Using Monarch is never a condition of enrolment, and choosing another provider won't change anything about your child's care with us.
Monarch’s clinic is in Williams Landing, in Melbourne’s west. Call Monarch on 1800 800 159 or visit monarchautism.com.au.
Getting started
Starting at Country Kidz
- 1
Call or book a visit.
Tour the centre at a quiet time and meet the educators.
- 2
Tell us about your child.
Share as much or as little as you like, including any reports or plans from your child's therapists.
Plan the start together.
We'll agree on settling-in days and the supports your child needs.
- 4
Review as we go.
We check in with you regularly and adjust as your child grows.
Inclusive care
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions families ask us most about additional needs.
Does my child need a diagnosis to enrol?
No. We welcome all children, and we adapt to your child's needs whether or not they have a diagnosis.
Do I have to use Monarch Autism Assessment?
No. Monarch is one option, and you're free to choose any assessment service. Your choice won't affect your child's place or care at Country Kidz.
Can my child's therapist visit the centre?
Yes, with your written permission and by arrangement with our team.
Do you offer therapy?
No. We're an early learning centre, not a therapy provider. We work alongside your child's therapists to support their goals during the day.
Will my child get one-on-one support?
It depends on your child's needs and the funding available. We'll talk with you honestly about what we can provide.
Can I use the Child Care Subsidy?
Yes. Families eligible for the Child Care Subsidy can get at least 3 days of subsidised care a week.
Talk to us
Every child is different, and so is every family’s situation. Call us on 03 5859 0194 or book a tour to chat about how we can support your child at Country Kidz.
Join us today
Give your child a bright start at Country Kidz Preschool
Call for a chat, book a visit, or start your enrolment online - we would love to show you around.
