Kids First has been empowering Northern Beaches children since 2007. Weāre committed to helping kids not just manage their challenges but grow with confidence, independence, and resilience. We know that raising a child with learning, behavioral, or developmental difficulties can feel isolating. Many of our team members have navigated similar journeys themselves, giving them a deep understanding and empathy for the families we serve.
Our multi-disciplinary team includes speech therapists, occupational therapists, child psychologists, and teachers. Working together under one roof, we create cohesive therapy plans that are tailored to each childās unique strengths and challenges. Throughout our years of service, we have helped 19,536 children and supported 6,604 parents. Our community programs and workshops further empower families to support their childrenās development at home.
We provide a wide range of services, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, psychology counseling, disability support, assessments, and early intervention. Every childās program is designed to help them reach their full potential. Founded by teacher and best-selling author Sonja Walker, Kids First started from a personal mission to provide local support for families in need. Sonjaās dedication to childrenās development continues to inspire everything we do.
At Kids First, we see you, we understand you, and we are here to support your family. Our goal is to help children flourish while equipping parents with the knowledge and tools to be effective advocates for their child.
Professional speech therapy services supporting communication, language development, and confidence in children.
Supportive counselling services helping children manage emotions, behaviour challenges, and mental wellbeing.
Occupational therapy programs improving motor skills, independence, and daily living abilities.
Comprehensive disability support services designed to enhance participation, development, and quality of life.
Detailed developmental assessments identifying strengths, delays, and personalised therapy pathways.
Early intervention services supporting young children with developmental delays through targeted therapies.
Kids First offers a range of child development and family support services including speech therapy, psychology counselling, occupational therapy, disability support, developmental assessments, and early intervention programs.
We support children from early childhood through to school-aged years. Early intervention services are especially designed for toddlers and preschool-aged children showing developmental concerns.
In most cases, a referral is not required. Families can contact us directly to arrange an assessment or therapy session. However, referrals may be helpful for certain funding or healthcare programs.
The first appointment usually involves an assessment where therapists learn about your child's development, strengths, and challenges. Parents can discuss concerns, goals, and expectations for therapy.
Session lengths vary depending on the service and individual needs, but most therapy sessions typically run between 45 and 60 minutes.
Yes. Parent involvement is encouraged. Families can observe sessions, ask questions, and learn strategies to support progress at home.
If your child has unclear speech, delayed talking, difficulty understanding language, stuttering, or challenges communicating socially, a speech therapy assessment may be beneficial.
Psychology counselling can support anxiety, emotional regulation difficulties, behavioural challenges, social skills concerns, school adjustment, trauma, and family transitions.
Occupational therapy supports fine motor skills, handwriting, coordination, sensory processing, emotional regulation, independence in daily activities, and school participation.
Yes. Our multidisciplinary team provides specialised support for children with autism spectrum disorder, developmental delays, and additional support needs.
Early intervention provides therapy during critical developmental stages when children learn skills most rapidly. Early support often leads to stronger communication, learning, and social outcomes.
Frequency depends on individual goals and therapist recommendations. Some children attend weekly sessions, while others may require more or less frequent support.
Therapists set measurable goals and regularly monitor development through observation, assessments, and family feedback to ensure therapy remains effective.
Yes. Comprehensive assessment reports include findings, recommendations, and suggested next steps. These can support school planning or funding applications where required.
Yes. Therapy focuses on real-life outcomes such as classroom participation, learning readiness, communication confidence, and social interaction skills.
Disability support may include skill development, community participation, social support, and assistance with daily routines tailored to each child's goals.
The length of therapy varies depending on the child's needs and progress. Some children benefit from short-term intervention, while others may require ongoing support.
Absolutely. Parent coaching is a key part of therapy. Families receive practical activities and strategies to reinforce skills during everyday routines.
Yes. Our therapy environment is welcoming, safe, and designed to help children feel comfortable and engaged during sessions.
You can contact Kids First by phone or online enquiry to arrange an assessment or discuss which service best suits your child's needs. Our team will guide you through the process step by step.