A brighter start for children with additional learning needs

Children’s brain development is most rapid in the first five years, mapping millions of connections that form the basis for lifelong learning, health, and behaviour. Thus, early intervention is crucial for children with additional learning needs.

Bright Start Specialised Early Learning Centre is the only dedicated centre on the Sunshine Coast that combines daycare with intensive one-to-one early intervention therapy. The centre provides a secure, nurturing, and educational environment for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), global developmental delay (GDD), and other support needs. Its team comprises qualified Early Childhood Educators, experienced therapy assistants, a psychologist/board-certified behaviour analyst (BCBA), and a speech pathologist.

Bright Start embraces the individuality of each child and adopts a strengths-based approach to therapy. By supporting active learning and encouraging hands-on exploration, the centre recognises that “play” is the primary avenue through which children learn and develop. and their families.

Founder Sarah Clark, a psychologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), highlights the importance of creating spaces that allow children to wander, wonder, be amazed, be themselves, and engage with others. These spaces, both indoors and outdoors, offer diverse learning opportunities and foster open-ended interactions, exploration, and a connection with nature.

“With the right early intervention and support, kids with disabilities can go on to live a fulfilling life. One where they contribute to society and can make a difference in the world. But it all starts in those first five years,” says Sarah.

See Bright Start Specialised Early Learning at Stand 31. Sarah Clark will be speaking about Applied Behaviour Analysis in Education Settings at 11.30 am in the Seminar Room.

Our highly qualified and experienced team of therapists and educators take a holistic approach using evidence based, research proven therapeutic practices.

Embracing the uniqueness of every child using a strengths-based approach to therapy through play.