The early childhood approach (previously called Early Childhood Early Intervention, or ECEI) is how the NDIS supports young children and their families.

It covers:

• Children younger than 6 with developmental delay, no formal diagnosis needed
• Children younger than 9 with disability

Support comes through early childhood partners which are teams with expertise in child development. They can connect your family with mainstream and community supports, provide some early supports directly and help you apply for an NDIS plan if your child needs longer-term help.

The whole idea is acting early: the right support in the early years can change a child's trajectory, which is why you don't need to wait for a diagnosis to get started.

If you have concerns about your child's development, talk to your GP or child health nurse, or contact the NDIS on 1800 800 110 to connect with your local early childhood partner. More detail is on the NDIS website.