The Children's Autism Foundation Approach
Our services have their genesis in the knowledge that families dealing with ASD need individual support and our approach has always been to acknowledge the family as the key to achieving quality lifetime outcomes for children with ASD. Additionally, we strongly believe that service providers must begin by acknowledging the Natural Authority of the family when it comes to understanding the needs of their child and deciding what is best for them. We see our role as strengthening that authority through expanded knowledge and impartially provided advice and guidance.
A strong, empowered family, whether a single parent or extended whanau, is important to achieving the best outcomes for children with ASD and strength comes from knowledge, confidence and knowing they are not facing the future alone.
Our SHINE Family Support Programme was developed specifically to tackle this need head on and this approach is clearly supported through the NZ ASD Guidelines.
We have found that families gain independence more rapidly if thorough support, appropriate information and advice are provided at an early stage. Whanau and parents gain confidence rapidly when they have a comprehensive Action Plan based on the needs identified by them, strategies aligned with their values and utilising their natural networks and resources.
Our services are unique in the Disability sector in that the family-centred philosophy assists the family unit to remain strong and regain their confidence to be the Natural Authority for their children, particularly those with ASD. Whilst our SHINE Family Support programme is a relatively new initiative, it has been reported by our clients as highly effective over its 3 year implementation and is increasingly in demand by families in the Auckland region. Our SHINE clients report remarkable improvements in family and child wellbeing. With direct, individualised support to the family the participation of children with ASD in home and community activities is greatly improved. The supported family provides a vibrant model of inclusion that demonstrates to society at large how to accept, value and support our disabled citizens.
