Waitemata DHB Child Development Services
If your child has developmental support needs, the Child Development Service can provide specialised support to help them develop and grow.
We believe that family is the constant in a child's life and that families want what's best for their child. You will be supported to develop goals which work toward your child and family's hopes and aspirations.
Where possible, your child will be seen at home, pre-school or in the community. If your child has a need for specialised equipment our team can help you apply for funding. We take a team approach - one or more team members may be involved with your family.
We can also provide access to clinical psychology support. Interpreting services are available for parents who need this support.
There are two Child Development Teams in the Waitemata district. The Waitakere team is based at the Child Health Unit, Waitakere Hospital. The North Shore/Rodney team is based at 3 William Laurie Place in Albany. Staff from the North Shore/Rodney team also work from the Hibiscus Coast Community Centre in Red Beach and the Warkworth Community Health centre.
(Note: Speech Language Therapists and Dietitians formerly based in Home Care for Kids are now part of the Child Development team)
Our Team
- Visiting Neurodevelopmental Therapists (VNT) assist babies and toddlers with all areas of their early development through positioning and play.
- Speech Language Therapists (SLT) support families where there are feeding difficulties and help with early communication through play.
- Dietitians give advice on nutrition, food or supplements needed for healthy growth.
- Physiotherapists (PT) focus on posture, movement and physical skills needed for activity.
- Occupational Therapists (OT) encourage the development of hand function and support the learning of specific skills your child needs for every day living.
- Social Workers support families to reduce stress and assist in managing family and community life.
We also work closely with:
Needs Assessment Service (NASC)
Paediatric Specialists
Ministry of Education, Special Education
Pre-schools and Schools
Homecare for Kids
Equipment Providers
New Zealand CCS
Ohomairangi Early Intervention Service
Plunket