Decision guide

Early intervention: what families can ask

Questions about team roles, assessment, family participation and review when comparing early-intervention services.

Reviewed 2026-10-30 · General information only
Illustration of planning questions before choosing child care
What this guide helps with

Use it to prepare questions, understand the service pathway and decide what to confirm with a provider.

What to know

Ask which disciplines are available at the chosen branch, who coordinates the plan, how the child is assessed and how progress is reviewed. Confirm whether the programme is centre-based, home-guided or mixed, what caregivers are expected to do and whether medical or educational referrals are needed. Availability and suitability must be confirmed directly.

Questions to take to the provider

  • Does this specific branch currently provide the service?
  • Which professional will assess or support the child, and what are their credentials?
  • Is a referral, appointment or prior report required?
  • What should the family bring, and how will the next step be explained?

Continue to relevant care

Limitations

This guide cannot determine which professional, assessment or treatment is appropriate for an individual child. Confirm branch services and current availability directly with the provider.