Kid Sense Child Develpment (East)

Get to know Kid Sense Child Develpment (East)

From Kid Sense Child Develpment (East)'s website.

• Our approach

  Therapy sessions use playful games and tailored, function-focused strategies to help children overcome developmental challenges in movement, play, learning and communication. The approach emphasises neuro-diversity, cultural inclusivity and trauma-informed practice, aiming to integrate therapy seamlessly into daily life. Occupational Therapy addresses sensory processing, fine and gross motor skills, self-regulation and self-care, while Speech Therapy takes an "All Communication is Valid" approach, supporting diverse ways of expressing and understanding. Clinicians work collaboratively with families and educators, offering flexible delivery through in-clinic appointments at six metropolitan centres, tele-therapy, community visits and in-school settings. Between sessions, families receive tailored home and education setting recommendations to support ongoing progress.

• Working with families

  Parents and carers are central to the approach, with clinicians working collaboratively to educate families about their child's development and support needs. Therapy recommendations extend beyond appointments, with tailored guidance for home and educational settings to support progress between sessions. The organisation recognises the challenges parents face and aims to help them feel supported and confident in delivering child-centred support. Families are involved in NDIS planning discussions where relevant, and the team coordinates with educators and other services involved in a child's care. Regular communication ensures parents understand their child's goals and how therapy integrates meaningfully into daily family life.

• Meet the team

  The team comprises 40+ experienced occupational therapists and speech pathologists led by Founder and Executive Director Joanna Buttfield, an occupational therapist who established the organisation in 1998. Clinical Director Tayla Manuel, an occupational therapist since 2016, provides professional mentorship and supervision to all clinicians, having completed the Dare to Lead course to enhance her leadership approach. All team members are trained in key areas including sensory processing, regulation, speech, language, literacy and social engagement, with regular professional development ensuring clinical excellence. Clinicians are employed through structured streams including Career Change, Return to Work and Graduate Programs, each receiving tailored training and supervision to deliver high-quality care.