Is The Whole Child Connection a registered NDIS provider?

Yes — The Whole Child Connection is a registered NDIS provider, approved to deliver Participate Community, Therapeutic Supports, Assist-Personal Activities, Assist Access/Maintain Employ, Household Tasks, Assist-Travel/Transport, Innov Community Participation, Development-Life Skills, Early Childhood Supports and Group/Centre Activities. You can use NDIS funding for eligible supports.

What services does The Whole Child Connection provide?

The Whole Child Connection provides Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Early Intervention.

Which areas does The Whole Child Connection cover?

The Whole Child Connection is based in KOLENDO, SA.

How do I connect with The Whole Child Connection?

You can call +61 423 597 126 and visit their website, or send an enquiry through EarlyBloom — it goes straight to the provider and is always free for families.

Do I need a referral to see a speech pathologist?

No referral is needed to see one privately. You only need a GP referral if you want to access Medicare rebates or are going through certain funded pathways.

Is speech therapy covered by the NDIS?

It can be, usually under Capacity Building / Improved Daily Living, if it aligns with your child's plan goals. Check your plan or ask your support coordinator.

At what age should we see a speech pathologist?

There's no "too early." If you have concerns about your child's talking or understanding at any age, an assessment can clarify whether support would help.

How long are sessions and how many will we need?

Sessions are typically 30-60 minutes. The number depends on your child's goals; the pathologist will recommend a plan after the initial assessment.

The Whole Child Connection · Speech Therapy · KOLENDO, SA

What The Whole Child Connection helps with

DIRFloortime® Therapy

A relationship-based, play-centred therapy designed to support the social, emotional, and developmental growth of children.

Occupational Therapy

A therapy that helps children and adults develop the everyday skills needed for daily life — from dressing, writing and play to sensory processing and school participation. Occupational therapists assess what is getting in the way and design practical strategies to build independence and confidence.

Speech Pathology

Assessment and treatment of communication difficulties including speech sounds, language development, stuttering, voice, and feeding and swallowing. Speech pathologists work with children and adults to help them communicate clearly and confidently.

Key Worker Support

Provides personalised guidance for young children and their families, coordinating care and supporting development across home, therapy, and early learning settings.

Allied Health Assistance

Support delivered by trained Allied Health Assistants under the supervision of a registered therapist. Assistants help implement therapy programs, practise skills with clients and provide increased frequency of support, making therapy more accessible and consistent.

Disability Support Work

Provides practical, compassionate support to children and young people, helping them build independence, confidence, and participation at home, school, and in the community.

School Readiness Program

Programs and assessments that prepare children for the transition to school by building the social, emotional, language and self-care skills needed to participate fully in a classroom environment. Often delivered by early childhood educators, occupational therapists and speech pathologists.

Social Learning Groups

Specialised Social Learning Groups for 3 to 7 year-olds and 8 to 11 year-olds designed to nurture strong social skills in young children.

Parent Coaching

Guidance and skill-building for parents and carers to better understand their child's development, manage challenging behaviours and build a warm, secure relationship. Programs may be one-on-one or delivered in groups and draw on evidence-based frameworks tailored to the family's needs.

Our approach

The Whole Child Connection uses DIRFloortime® to support children's social, emotional, and developmental growth through play, alongside occupational therapy, speech pathology, and key worker support. Sessions are child-focused and attachment-based, with the practitioner following the child's lead to make each session engaging and meaningful. The provider takes time to understand each child's needs, celebrate their strengths, and support progress in a welcoming, compassionate environment. A family-centred approach means practical strategies are shared so parents and caregivers can support their child's development in everyday life. The goal is to help children build confidence, independence, and reach developmental milestones through trusting relationships.

Working with families

Communication with parents is described as easy, clear, and highly valued by families. The provider shares practical tips, strategies, and insights tailored to each child's needs so parents can confidently support their development at home and in everyday routines. Sessions can be held in different settings including the family home, allowing parents to observe and learn directly from the therapist. Strong emphasis is placed on working closely with parents and caregivers as partners in the child's growth, ensuring families understand their child's needs and progress every step of the way.

Meet the team

The team includes Lori (manager and lead therapist), Don (occupational therapist), and Prabh (Autism Health Advocate/support worker). Lori is described as extremely knowledgeable and professional with expertise in DIRFloortime®, emotional development, and holistic support across home and early learning settings. Don specialises in occupational therapy, helping children build confidence and independence in everyday skills. Prabh is warm, friendly, and patient, working strategically through play to help children achieve goals while keeping sessions enjoyable. The team works flexibly across different settings including home, clinic, and kindergarten.

The Whole Child Connection

What families say

About The Whole Child Connection