How can we help?

According to the Australian Early Development Index 2009, 23.5% of children in their first year of full time school are developmentally vulnerable on one or more domains. 11.8% of children are developmentally vulnerable on two or more domains. Many children are entering school who have one or more immaturities across a broad range of areas.

These children may be finding it difficult to sit still in a chair; have difficulty listening and following directions; have immature speech development; difficulty socialising in groups and little interest in drawing and colouring in. Many children avoid certain activities and are unable to focus on activities that are challenging for them. This may be an early warning sign of gaps in their development.

The following signs may suggest developmental immaturity:

• Delayed motor milestones eg sitting, crawling, walking, speech
• Immature speech development, reading and spelling difficulties
• Health problems in early childhood eg reflux, ear infection
• Attention problems, impulsivity, auditory processing difficulties
• Difficulty with manual dexterity, poor pencil grip, poor handwriting
• Good at maths but poor at language subjects
• Social difficulties, problems making friends, variations in performance and behaviour

Learning Connections can help these children!

Training in Learning Connections Programs will equip you with the knowledge and skills to use activities that are designed to promote the child’s development across a broad range of areas. This will ensure that the child develops readiness for learning skills.

The Learning Connections Program

• utilises fun, simple and non-threatening activities suitable for all abilities and year levels
• is a practical tool for Classroom Teachers, Learning Support Teachers and Teacher Aides to use with individuals, small groups and whole classes
• can be used in conjunction with existing HPE and PMP programs and fits into the mandatory daily fitness requirements
• requires minimal or no materials
• is a great way to start the day, transition between activities or settle your class after breaks