Early childhood intervention (ECI) practitioners work closely with families to deliver best practice support by centering services around the child and their family’s needs, priorities, and everyday routines.
Best practice in ECI is built upon a family-centred and evidence-informed approach, which empowers families as the most important contributors to their child’s development.
As an ECI practitioner, our practice is grounded in:
- Building strong, respectful relationships: Professionals take time to build trust and collaborate with families as equal partners. They listen to the family’s concerns, values, and goals, ensuring that support is personalised and culturally respectful.
- Working in natural environments: Best practice support happens where children live, play, and learn – at home, in early learning settings, and in the community. ECI professionals embed strategies into everyday activities, helping families support their child’s development in meaningful, real-world contexts.
- Focusing on family priorities: Rather than prescribing solutions, professionals help families identify what matters most to them. This might include supporting communication, increasing participation in daily routines, or building social skills. Interventions are designed around the family's goals.
- Collaborative goal setting and planning: Together with families (and sometimes educators), professionals develop clear, achievable goals and plans. These are regularly reviewed and adapted based on the child’s progress and the family’s evolving needs.
Take a look at further resources to support your work with families, and if you need further support to deliver quality ECI, please get in touch.