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What Is a Developmental & Functional Needs Assessment?

A guide for families exploring early developmental assessments (ages 0–6)

Every child develops in their own way and at their own pace. But sometimes, as a parent or caregiver, you notice something that makes you pause. Maybe your child processes the world a little differently—through movement, quiet observation, big feelings, or a deep need for sameness or routine. Maybe they’re not hitting the milestones you expected, or transitions feel especially hard. Or maybe you're just not sure—and you're wanting to better understand what might help.


It’s Not Always About Milestones

Some children meet all their milestones but still seem to experience the world a little differently. You might notice:


  • A need for sameness or predictability

  • Difficulty shifting between activities or environments

  • Differences in how they connect, play, or show affection

  • Emotional reactions that feel unusually big or sudden


These aren’t always signs of a problem—but they may be a clue that your child’s nervous system is asking for support.


Development Happens in Context

Your child’s development is shaped by many things: biology, temperament, environment, relationships, routines, sensory experiences, and more.


A thoughtful assessment considers:


  • Your child’s strengths, interests, and preferred ways of connecting

  • Recent transitions, stressors, or changes in routine

  • Cultural and family values around communication and growth

  • The bigger picture—not just isolated behaviours


Understanding this broader context can help you feel more grounded in knowing what your child needs now—and what might be helpful next.


What a Developmental & Functional Needs Assessment Can Offer

These assessments don’t just focus on what a child can or can’t do. Instead, they explore:


  • How your child communicates, connects, and copes

  • Sensory processing, play, attention, and regulation

  • Daily routines, participation in kinder or care, and peer interaction

  • Functional and adaptive skills (e.g. dressing, mealtimes, transitions)

  • Whether early supports or allied health services might help

  • Whether NDIS may be appropriate now or in the future


You Might Be Considering an Assessment If:


  • Your child seems highly sensitive to noise, touch, transitions, or crowds

  • They’re not meeting expected milestones for speech, movement, or social play

  • There’s a lot of emotional dysregulation, or difficulty settling

  • Someone (a kinder teacher, MCH nurse, or GP) has gently raised a concern

  • You’re feeling unsure and just want clarity and support


You don’t have to wait until something becomes a crisis. Early support can be gentle, relationship-based, and tailored to your child—not rushed or clinical.


What Happens During the Assessment?

It usually includes:


  • A reflective interview with you as the caregiver

  • Observation or play-based engagement with your child

  • Questionnaires or screeners looking at development and sensory patterns

  • A feedback conversation and written summary

  • Recommendations for early supports, therapy, or strategies at home


Sometimes, assessments are used to support NDIS applications, especially under the Early Childhood Approach. If that’s something you're considering, the process can be tailored to help with this too.


After the Assessment

Depending on what’s explored, you may receive:


  • A feedback session with space to ask questions

  • A written summary of your child’s profile and needs

  • Recommendations for therapy, kinder supports, or routines at home

  • Input around NDIS access or further pathways, if appropriate


Helpful Resources

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