As children grow, developing independence becomes increasingly important.

For children over the age of 10 living with autism, behaviours of concern or other disabilities, everyday activities and community participation can present unique challenges. With the right support, children can develop practical skills, build confidence and work towards greater independence in their daily lives.

At Best Care Services, we provide personalised NDIS support for children over 10, working alongside families and support networks to help children work towards their individual goals.

Our focus is on providing meaningful opportunities for children to learn, participate, develop new skills and build confidence.

Supporting children to achieve their individual goals

Every child is different. Their abilities, interests, communication style, support needs and goals will all influence the type of support that is appropriate.

Our support is tailored around the individual child and may focus on developing skills across areas such as:

• Community participation
• Social and communication skills
• Travel training
• Personal care and self-care
• Daily living skills
• Building confidence and independence
• Developing routines
• Participating in recreational activities
• Increasing community access
• Developing appropriate social interactions

The aim is to provide support that is meaningful to the child and aligned with their NDIS goals.

Community Participation

Community participation provides children with opportunities to build confidence, develop practical skills and engage with their local community.

Support may include participating in activities such as:

• Sporting and recreational activities
• Libraries and community centres
• Shopping and everyday errands
• Parks and outdoor activities
• Social and community groups
• Appointments and other community activities

For some children, participating in the community can be challenging due to communication difficulties, sensory needs, anxiety or behaviours of concern.

Our support workers provide individualised assistance to help children participate in activities that are meaningful to them, while developing the skills required to engage more confidently in their community.

Developing Social Skills

Developing social skills can be an important part of building independence.

Children may work towards goals such as:

• Communicating their needs and preferences
• Initiating conversations
• Taking turns
• Participating in group activities
• Developing appropriate social interactions
• Understanding personal boundaries
• Building relationships
• Responding to different social situations

These skills can be developed naturally through everyday activities and community participation, allowing children to practise skills in environments that are relevant to their lives.

Travel Training and Community Independence

Learning to navigate the community is an important life skill.

For some children, travel training may form part of their NDIS goals. Support can help children develop practical skills such as:

• Understanding routes and destinations
• Reading signs and timetables
• Using public transport
• Understanding pedestrian and road safety
• Planning a journey
• Recognising when they need assistance
• Responding to changes during a journey

Travel training is tailored to the child’s current abilities and goals, with support gradually adjusted as their confidence and skills develop.

Building Self-Care and Daily Living Skills

Developing independence in everyday activities can have a significant impact on a child’s confidence and participation.

Depending on their individual goals, children may work on skills including:

• Personal hygiene
• Dressing and grooming
• Preparing simple meals
• Eating and drinking
• Organising personal belongings
• Following daily routines
• Completing household tasks
• Personal safety
• Recognising when assistance is required

Our support workers can assist children to practise these skills in their everyday environments, encouraging participation and independence wherever appropriate.

Supporting Children with Behaviours of Concern

Some children may experience behaviours of concern that can affect their ability to participate in everyday activities or engage within the community.

At Best Care Services, we understand that every child has different communication, behavioural and support needs.

Our team provides individualised, person-centred support that considers the child’s goals, preferences, communication and existing support strategies.

We work collaboratively with families and relevant members of the child’s support team to promote safe, consistent and positive participation. We also work with the Behaviour Support Practicioner to implement the Positive Behaviour Support Plan.

The focus is on supporting the child to engage in meaningful activities and develop skills that can contribute to greater independence.

Creating Opportunities for Growth

For a child, developing independence doesn’t necessarily mean doing everything without support.

It can mean being able to participate with the right level of assistance.

It might be:

Learning to catch a bus.

Ordering their own lunch.

Participating in a social activity.

Completing part of their morning routine independently.

Communicating what they need.

Trying something new in the community.

Each achievement contributes to the development of skills, confidence and independence.

Personalised NDIS Support for Children Over 10

At Best Care Services, we understand that families want their children to have opportunities to develop, participate and achieve their goals.

Our experienced team provides personalised NDIS support for children over 10, with services tailored to each child’s individual needs and NDIS goals.

If your child is over 10 and you are looking for personalised NDIS support, our team can discuss their goals, support needs and how Best Care Services may be able to assist.