Leckey Parent Hub

Early Intervention

The first three years of a child’s life are widely regarded as the most important period for development.

For some children, early limitations aren't easily overcome with time alone. Developmental delay means that a child may acquire skills more slowly or to a lesser degree. When children require extra help in these early years, support such as Occupational therapy, Physiotherapy, or Speech Therapy is known as early intervention.

Therapy and Aids

Therapy doesn’t just happen in a clinic setting with a therapist present; it happens every day, at home, in schools, and during play. For children with additional needs, the right equipment and positioning aids can make a huge difference in development, comfort, and independence.

Sleeping

Sleeping is a key element of 24-hour postural management. A well supported sleep, in a symmetric posture can reduce the build-up of pressure points, increase comfort and contribute to an undisturbed night's sleep.

Seating

Sitting is key part of a childhood development, opening a world of opportunity that enables learning, interaction and independence. Whilst independent sitting might not be achievable for all, the opportunity to sit should always be promoted as early as possible.

Standing

Standing is important for every child, with a range of benefits for their health and development. Children should be given the opportunity to be in a standing position using specially-designed standing frames, so that they can benefit from the many positive effects of upright standing.

Mobility

Mobility describes any type of movement, like crawling, walking or on wheels in the child’s environment. In this section we are specifically talking about seated mobility, such as strollers and wheelchairs. These devices are designed to help children move around safely and easily when walking isn’t possible or practical.

Walking

The ability to move independently plays a key role in a child’s physical, social, cognitive and psychological development. When a child begins to move on their own, they start to become more independent and learn that they can make things happen for themselves.

Bathing and Showering

Bath time is more than just getting clean, it's a chance for relaxation, sensory play and bonding. As a parent or caregiver, you might feel unsure about how to make bath time safe and enjoyable, especially as your child gets older. Thankfully, with a little preparation, adaptive equipment, and creative strategies, bathing can become a positive and stimulating part of your child’s day.

Toileting

When it comes to children with additional needs, toilet training can understandably get pushed down the list of priorities. Whether it be the misunderstood potential, a lack of readily available support or simply the child showing no clear signs of readiness, the topic altogether is often set aside. This section aims to open up the possibilities of toilet training for families, and equip you with the knowledge and support to make a start.

Leisure and Sports

All children deserve the chance to play, move, and explore the world around them, regardless of ability. For children with additional needs, access to leisure and sport is not only possible, but incredibly beneficial.

Transfers

Everyday tasks like moving from a bed to a chair, standing up from the floor, or getting into a bath are things many of us take for granted. But for children with additional needs, these movements, also known as transfers, can be physically demanding and sometimes unsafe without support.