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What Makes Our Groups Different?

• All programs are designed and led by qualified allied health professionals.

• Activities are grounded in evidence-based practice and linked to meaningful developmental outcomes.

• High staffing ratios, typically one staff member for every two children. 

• 1:1 support can be arranged where appropriate if we understand your child's needs ahead of time.

• Safe and supportive environment for children with a wide range of support needs.

• Social development is approached through a neurodiversity-affirming lens that focuses on connection, self-understanding, communication, and participation rather than compliance or masking.

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Group Programs

School Term Groups

Our term groups provide opportunities for children to build confidence, friendships, communication skills, and independence through shared activities and experiences over an extended period of time.

We take a neurodiversity-affirming approach to social development that recognises there is no single "right" way to communicate, interact, or build relationships. Our goal is to help children develop meaningful connections and participate in ways that work for them.

 

School Holiday Programs

Our school holiday programs are built around children's interests and provide opportunities to work towards therapy goals in a fun and motivating environment.

Programs may be based on interests such as Minecraft, Pokémon, technology, gaming, creative arts, or other areas that engage and motivate children.

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Age Ranges

Age ranges vary between programs. Please see our Upcoming Groups page for information about individual groups.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do children need to be existing Early Bird clients to attend a group?

No. All of our groups are open to children who do not currently access other Early Bird Therapy services.

If your child has not attended Early Bird before, one of our therapists will arrange a phone call with you before the group begins. This helps us get to know your child, understand any support needs, and ensure we have everything in place to help them have a positive and successful experience.

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Can groups be funded through the NDIS?

In many cases, yes. Eligibility depends on the individual group and your child's NDIS plan.

 

Are the groups run by therapists?

Yes. All groups are designed and led by qualified allied health professionals. Therapy assistants also help facilitate activities under clinician supervision.

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Are these therapy groups or social groups?

Both. Our groups are designed and led by allied health professionals and are grounded in evidence-based practice. While children have fun, build friendships, and engage in meaningful activities, each group is intentionally designed to support therapeutic goals and participation outcomes.

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My child needs a lot of support. Can they still attend?

Absolutely. We regularly support children with a wide range of support needs. 

The most important requirement for groups is that your child wants to attend. While we can provide additional support, we cannot force a child to participate in a group they do not wish to attend. If you're unsure whether a group is the right fit for your child, we'd be happy to discuss their needs with you.

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Do you use screens during groups?

Sometimes. Some groups incorporate technology or gaming interests as part of planned activities, while others do not involve screens at all. Screens are never used as a babysitting tool or to occupy children for convenience. Where technology is used, it is intentional, purposeful, and linked to the goals of the group. For example, some school holiday programs may be built around interests such as Minecraft or technology, while other groups may not involve screens at all.

If you have questions or concerns about screen use in a particular group, we encourage you to discuss them with our team before enrolling.

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How many children are in each group?

Group sizes vary depending on the program, the age of the children, and their individual needs. We intentionally keep groups small and maintain high staffing ratios to ensure children receive the support they need.

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Do parents and carers stay during the group?

It depends on the group and your child's age. Parents and carers are welcome to stay during groups if they wish. Some children prefer having a familiar adult nearby when starting a new activity, while others are more comfortable attending independently.

If you choose to leave during the group, we ask that you remain easily contactable by phone and available to return if needed.