Setting goals during the school years is a powerful tool for supporting children with disability to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
By working together on your child’s NDIS goals, parents and children can create a roadmap for your child’s life that fosters growth, builds confidence and maximises their potential.
NDIS supports for school-aged children.
For children who have transitioned to the NDIS, it’s helpful to have a clear understanding of relevant NDIS funding supports to align with goals.
- Therapy supports: Includes speech therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy and behaviour support.
- Transport: Specialised transport required because of a student’s disability.
- Teacher training: Specialised training for teachers and other staff about the specific personal support needs of a student with disability.
- Specialised equipment and aids: Funding for assistive technology devices and equipment tailored to the specific needs of the child.
- Social and community participation: Supports and activities that promote social and community participation, help children make friends and enhance wellbeing.
- Capacity building: Programs and activities to help the child learn new skills and become more independent.
- Personal care: Assistance with everyday activities, dressing, grooming, toileting and overnight care. Additional self-care at school related to the student’s disability.
- Respite care: Overnight or short-term care offering temporary relief for caregivers and giving your child a change of scenery or opportunity to learn skills in a different environment.
For more details, see Can the NDIS help my child at school?
Goal setting tips for school-aged children.
- Focus on strengths and interests and align goals accordingly.
- Prioritise functional goals that will have a practical impact on the child’s daily life and education.
- Foster a supportive environment that emphasises effort, growth and resilience rather than focusing solely on outcomes.
- Work collaboratively with teachers and therapists to set suitable goals in their NDIS Plan.
- Encourage the child to express their needs, preferences and goals. Include self-advocacy as a goal to improve independence and confidence.
- Consider long-term goals, especially once immediate support needs are met.
Goal setting during this time can also assist with transition preparedness, such as moving to a new grade, changing schools or moving house.