Does your child often “act out” for no apparent reason? Perhaps you are worried they might have signs of dyslexia, autism or ADHD or some other form of developmental delay? Maybe you are concerned that they are falling behind other children in reaching certain milestones?

Children often find it hard to tell us how they are feeling. They get angry or frustrated and hit out, yelling and screaming. Maybe they seem uncoordinated and bump into things, often say “huh” or “what”, or find it difficult to make friends. 

All of these behaviours can be signs of developmental delay. Immaturities in your child’s early development can show up in your their movements, emotions, behaviour, learning and communication.

Developmental Delay

Your child’s early development begins before they are even born. While they are still in utero they are moving and listening to the sounds of your voice. After birth, your child will slowly gain new skills, especially during floor play and tummy time, the building blocks for learning. 

Sometimes, however, this early development can be interrupted. You may notice that your child is not reaching milestones the same as other children the same age. Perhaps they are struggling to keep up at school?

Gaps in early development can make it harder for your child to learn. They may struggle to read and write, make friends, or sit still and concentrate at school.

Support for Parents and Carers

A good place to start is with supporting you, the parents and carers. You are one of the most important people in your child’s life, and we will be working together to help your child.

Individual Counselling or Psychotherapy sessions offer you a place to talk privately about your concerns. Together we can work out the best way to help your child. Of course, everything you say in these sessions is kept completely confidential.

The Circle of Security Parenting Program

Many parents have found the Circle of Security Parenting program has helped build closer relationships with their children. When we can see the meaning behind a child’s behaviour, it helps to understand why they are happening, and how we can help them.

This parenting program is available both individually and for small groups. It can be helpful to share your parenting experiences with other parents, as there are always others facing exactly the same issues that you are.

Parents in recent classes have commented that “every parent should do this” and “this program has changed our lives”.