Support for Children with Autism: Developing Individualised Routines and Activities

Caring for a child with autism comes with unique challenges, particularly for families from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. To address these challenges, we are excited to announce the launch of the Doniya Better: Enhancing Access and Equity for Migrant and Refugee Families of Children with Autism project. This initiative builds on the success of our pilot program, which identified critical gaps and created tailored solutions to support autistic children and their families.

Understanding the Needs

Our pilot program revealed key areas where families in CALD communities need support:

• Inconsistent Routines: Autistic children thrive on predictable routines, yet many parents lack the training to implement these effectively.

• Limited Resources: Essential communication and learning tools often used in schools are not readily available at home.

• Underutilized NDIS Plans: Language barriers, low health literacy, and cultural sensitivities prevent parents from fully accessing NDIS resources.

• Overwhelmed Parents: Navigating complex systems while managing other responsibilities can leave parents feeling unsupported.

• Social Isolation: Many autistic children face limited interaction with siblings and the broader community, increasing misunderstandings and conflicts.

A Comprehensive and Family-Centred Approach

Our project includes a core component designed to address these challenges and create lasting positive outcomes for children aged from newly arrived migrant and refugee communities in Sydney and regional Victoria.

Tailored Routine Program for Children

Objective: Develop and implement individualized routines and activities for autistic children in their home environments, ensuring sustainability and developmental success.

Structure:

• Weeks 1-2: Initial consultations and comprehensive needs assessments with families.

• Weeks 3-4: Design of a customized program, including daily routines, educational activities, and behavioural strategies.

• Weeks 5-10: Weekly home visits by autism consultants for guidance and program adjustments.

• Ongoing: Parental training to ensure the sustainability of routines beyond the program.

Transforming Lives Together

Our program is built on a foundation of cultural sensitivity, inclusivity, and family-centred care. By strengthening parents and carers and creating tailored routines for children, we aim to foster meaningful, long-term change. We are now expanding this NDIA-funded initiative to Sydney and regional Victoria. We have limited seats available.

Get Involved If you’d like to learn more or support this initiative, please reach out to our team. Together, we can create a brighter future for families living with autism in our communitie