Harper is now thriving with therapy support

When Harper’s parents were referred to Northcott’s Early Childhood approach team, she was behind in many key developmental milestones for a child her age.

She was unable to walk, sit, stand, eat or drink. She also displayed severe emotional reactions, making it difficult for her family to take her to doctor’s appointments, therapy sessions and out in the community. On top of that, her parents struggled to find a daycare centre able to support her needs.

How Northcott supported Harper

Nadine, one of Northcott’s early childhood coordinators in northern NSW, assessed Harper and determined she may be eligible for NDIS-funded supports due to her developmental delay.

Working with her parents, Nadine developed two NDIS Plans for Harper, the first of which was approved in 2020. Nadine also linked Harper’s parents to a multidisciplinary team of therapists who have worked with Harper to develop her strength and mobility, as well as social and emotional skills. Nadine is currently supporting the family through a third plan for Harper.

Harper’s positive outcomes

“Harper has been with the NDIS for several years now. Over this time, she has improved in leaps and bounds,” says her mum Georgia.

When Harper started with the NDIS she couldn’t sit up unassisted. She had no core strength. With our amazing team of an occupational therapist, a physiotherapist, speech therapist, behaviourist, assistant therapist and Nadine, our early childhood coordinator, Harper is now up and running around with limited supports. This is something we did not think would happen in such a short time.

Georgia, Harper’s Mum

Georgia says being able to have Harper’s therapists visit their home, as well as her day care centre, has been so important in keeping everyone on the same page with her development. The family has seen many improvements in Harper, from her starting day care to now being able to go out in the community and enjoy small social interactions.

“Harper loves day care and is starting to make some good friends,” Georgia says.

“With the help of her behaviourist, we can now go to appointments without Harper feeling like someone is going to hurt her. Having the therapist help and teach me and my husband how to support Harper and what to do when she has an episode has helped so much with her emotional development,” Georgia says.

Accessing the right support

Nadine is proud to have been able to assist Harper and her family get the support they need.

“Since the NDIS has afforded the family the chance to have therapy assistance and a multidisciplinary team, Harper has thrived. It is truly amazing how well she has developed,” says Nadine.

“Harper has a long road to go but with the help of the NDIS, I’m sure she will continue to develop and grow,” says Harper’s mum.

“Thanks, Nadine, for always helping and listening to everything that Harper needs.”