What Families Should Know: Best Practice in Early Childhood Intervention

At ProAACtive Speech Pathology, we know families want the very best support for their child. The Australian Government’s released the new National Best Practice Framework for Early Childhood Intervention this week setting out what “good” looks like when it comes to helping children with developmental delay or disability, including those using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).

You can find the full documentation here: https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/national-best-practice-framework-for-early-childhood-intervention

What does best practice mean?

Best practice means your child and family are at the centre of all decisions. It means support is:

• Family-centred – your goals, routines and values guide the therapy.

• Strengths-based – we build on what your child can already do.

• Everyday-focused – learning happens during daily routines, at home, childcare, school and play.

• Inclusive – services are culturally respectful and accessible for all families.

• Evidence-based – strategies are backed by research and adapted to your child’s needs.

Why this matters for AAC and speech therapy

For children who use AAC, best practice means we don’t just focus on devices in the therapy room and “getting a device”. Instead, we embed communication in real life – greetings at preschool, choices at mealtimes, chats with siblings. Families, educators and therapists work together so children can participate, belong and thrive in their everyday world.

What you can expect

You should expect services that:

• Involve you in setting goals and choosing strategies.

• Provide therapy in home, school and community.

• Help your child participate with peers and community.

• Regularly review progress and adjust supports as your child grows.

At ProAACtive, we’re committed to these principles. We work alongside families to make sure every child’s voice is heard – whether spoken, signed, or through AAC – and that they have the tools and confidence to connect with the world around them.