Effective allied health and coaching support starts with listening

The most effective allied health and coaching support in early childhood settings begins with listening to the educators who know the children, routines and learning environments best. 

Noah’s Ark Operations Manager Sarah Denholm says this is a key consideration for the organisation’s allied health and coaching team even before they step through the door of an early childhood education and care service. 

“We work with and alongside teachers and educators because we know they are capable and competent – possessing a rich skillset,” Ms Denholm says. 

“In recognising that teachers and educators have so many existing strengths in pedagogy and practice and work with young children, we are then able to work with you to build on those skills and work towards your goals. 

“Through collaborative discussions, we can explore together what your previous experience is and what you are curious about. 

“A culture of listening within that working relationship is vital.” 

Supporting the participation and meaningful inclusion of children is one example of how Noah’s Ark’s team of Speech Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists and Specialist Teachers can support in the early childhood space. 

“Noah’s Ark supports may be delivered in a variety of ways including group professional learning packages, in-learning and teaching environment supports, or we can help with topics of importance to you’,” Ms Denholm says. 

“Embedding strategies with a strong Early Intervention evidence base into your existing daily routines and learning and teaching environment is also key to the work.  

“For example, a Speech Pathologist may be able to work on children’s communication supporting receptive and expressive language development, and strategies shared and discussed may also be tailored to be used to support the strengthening of inclusive environments across the group/setting. 

“Resources and further information to support work on goals can be developed and created collaboratively where appropriate. 

“Frequency of sessions can be determined based on your needs.” 

Support areas can include communication, social and emotional development (e.g. co-regulation), as well as access and inclusion to support children with disability, developmental differences, or additional support needs. 

Many ECEC services fund our work directly, while others draw on available funding such as School Readiness Funding in Victoria and Preschool Boost in South Australia. The approach often depends on the priorities, goals and needs of each service, its staff and local community. We also work across multiple sites with councils and larger providers, tailoring support to their broader inclusion, staff development and service priorities. 

To explore how Noah’s Ark could support the inclusion, staff development and service priorities of your early childhood education and care service or kindergarten, complete the register interest form or phone 1800 819 140.