A pioneering early childhood intervention initiative in South Brisbane is transforming how families access crucial developmental support, ensuring young children receive timely care without the usual hurdles. The 'Thriving and On Track' (TOTs) program brings allied health services directly into the familiar environments of community hubs, daycares, and early learning centres, effectively removing the common burden of navigating complex healthcare systems.

For many parents, identifying and addressing developmental concerns in young children can be an overwhelming task. Suzie Felmingham, a local mother, experienced this firsthand when her four-year-old daughter, Olivia, began kindergarten earlier this year. Olivia, full of energy and curiosity, struggled with the structured environment, having difficulty focusing and sitting still during mat time.

“We had a little discussion with the teachers that she had a little bit of trouble focusing, sitting still on the mat and following instructions,” Ms Felmingham recounted. What followed was a seamless process: Olivia's teachers suggested an assessment with a child health nurse, and an appointment was arranged right at the daycare. This convenience was key for Ms Felmingham.

“I’m very time poor, like we all are, and I guess things can be a little overwhelming when you have to look up the thing, organise it, drive there, get there,” she explained. “This was all so easy and so seamless… and it’s an environment we both feel comfortable in.” The nurse provided practical strategies for Ms Felmingham to implement at home with Olivia, easing her worries and confirming Olivia was on track developmentally. “It was something that was definitely playing on my mind a lot,” she added. “So, since speaking to the child health nurse, it’s just relaxed me a little bit, which in turn relaxes her.”

This innovative approach is a collaborative effort spearheaded by the regional Primary Health Network (PHN) for Brisbane’s south. Data indicates that approximately one in four children across Queensland present at school with a developmental delay, with local figures in the Brisbane South area showing an even higher prevalence. Experts universally agree that early intervention is paramount in mitigating these numbers and ensuring better long-term outcomes for children.

The TOTs program directly addresses this need by 'meeting parents where they are'. Rather than expecting families to seek out specialist clinics, the services are embedded within the very places children and their families already frequent, such as community hubs, playgroups, and early learning centres.

Leilani Salesa, from Slacks Creek, is another parent who has benefited immensely. Her four-year-old son, Frederick, has been attending weekly speech therapy sessions at their local community hub, a place they already visit for playgroups. Ms Salesa had concerns about Frederick’s speech but found traditional avenues for support, including private services and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), to be complex and often overly clinical.

“Since he began speech therapy through TOTs, the difference has been enormous,” Ms Salesa shared, highlighting Frederick’s improved ability to hold conversations and engage in back-and-forth communication. She also noted positive changes in his behaviour, including better focus and the ability to sit still, attributing these advancements to consistent support within a comfortable and familiar environment.

Tennille Burkett, Director of the regional early years strategy at the Brisbane South Primary Health Network, underscores the program's core philosophy. “We bring services to children and families in places where they are connected and feel safe,” Ms Burkett stated, acknowledging that many families struggle to navigate the fragmented early intervention system. “We’re removing that burden from families – that they need to navigate a complex and often fragmented system.”

Now in its seventh year, the TOTs program supports approximately 170 families annually in accessing allied health services through community centres. Furthermore, it plays a vital role in capacity building, training around 370 educators each year on how to effectively engage with families about developmental screening appointments and the importance of early support.

Researchers believe the TOTs model holds significant potential for replication elsewhere. Dr. Shaun Ziegenfusz, an allied health researcher at Griffith University, who has worked closely with the program's implementation team, affirms its success. “We know that families are feeling increased sense of support,” Dr. Ziegenfusz noted. He also highlighted the program’s efficiency: “models like TOTs are a really great way of engaging families where they’re at within their communities” and working with more families than traditional one-on-one support models typically allow.

This community-centric approach offers a promising pathway for early childhood intervention, proving that accessible, integrated support can make a profound difference in the developmental journey of young children and the wellbeing of their families.