Neuroaffirming practice
Neuroaffirming practice is about meeting children where they are and valuing their unique ways of thinking, acting and being rather than trying to “fix” or normalise them. At The Infants’ Home our Integrated Team of educators and allied health therapists recognise each child’s strengths, listen to or observe what they’re communicating, and adjust the environment or expectations to help them feel safe, have a say, and take part in daily life. Strategies to support this include using visuals, offering quiet spaces and opportunities to take time away from others, allowing sufficient time to process information, and providing choices.
Inclusive environments
We create welcoming learning spaces where children can participate in ways that suit them. Our Integrated Team creates clear, consistent routines, supports gentle transitions and provides flexible play-based experiences, so children know what to expect to engage with confidence. We incorporate visuals such as visual routine schedules for the day depicting what children can expect, as well as calm spaces and sensory-aware choices to support children who may be sensitive to noise, movement or busy environments. These strategies and supports benefit all children in the learning space. For example, visual step-by-step hand-washing procedures help all children to learn this important self-care skill.
Keeping every child safe is a core concern, and in the instance of any potentially unsafe behaviours the team implements strategies that prioritise both the child’s and their peers’ safety and wellbeing. All strategies as carefully considered and ensure every child feels valued, safe and accepted.
Individualised support every day
Inclusion is embedded in daily life at The Infants’ Home. Our Integrated Team intentionally scaffold play and social learning, building communication, self-regulation and peer connections through child-led experiences. For some children, this might mean extra support to join group play; for others, it might be offering or suggesting different ways to communicate, participate or explore.
Working in partnership with families
We know that families are the experts on their child, and we partner closely with them to understand their child’s strengths, interests and support needs and to align strategies across home and our early learning environments.
A culture of belonging
The Infants’ Home fosters a community where differences are respected and celebrated. We encourage empathy, kindness and curiosity so children learn early that everyone belongs. Supporting neurodivergent children means adapting the environment, honouring individuality, and building on strengths so every child feels they belong and can learn, connect and thrive. We will continue to celebrate all types of diversity which includes neurodiversity!
Contact Us
If you have any questions or would like more information, please email us at childrensservices@theinfantshome.org.au.