The Family Voices Podcast

In this episode, our host Simone Dudley talks with Dr Megan Hosken on raising concerns that families may have about their child's health and development. Dr Hosken provides tips and insights on ways to support families achieve the outcomes they're seeking when visiting a general practitioner (GP) and other health professionals. These recommendations will help speed the process of making referrals for assessment and lead to accessing important services and supports.  Families and professionals will benefit from hearing Dr Hosken talk about the importance of building rapport through a family centred and collaborative approach. Download transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au In an effort to continually improve, we are asking our community for feedback on the podcast via this short survey. Please share your thoughts with us :)

In this episode our host Simone Dudley talks with Lucy about how the experience of living in a rural community shaped her role in supporting her son, Jake. Lucy shares her story of how her family invested in services for Jake and how she is now a key contributor to his and the community's support needs. Lucy uses the quote, “the strength of the wolf is in the pack” when describing the opportunities made available by living in an inclusive community. Download transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au In an effort to continually improve, we are asking our community for feedback on the podcast via this short survey. Please share your thoughts with us :)

In this episode, Melo shares his story about parental agency as he talks with our host, Simone Dudley. Melo stresses never to underestimate the importance of a parent's influence on their child's development, as experienced with his own daughter. Listen to Melo as he defines hope as having a goal, believing you can make a difference, and having a pathway to follow. This as well as the benefit that comes from peers sharing their stories truly highlights that parents are a rich resource for one another, for their lived experience incorporates deeper meaning to any message they deliver, and it was this that helped guide Melo back into the driver's seat. This led Melo to realise – if you believe it to be possible, you begin to see possibilities. Learn more about the Envisage program mentioned in the episode >> Download transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au In an effort to continually improve, we are asking our community for feedback on the podcast via this short survey. Please share your thoughts with us :)

In this episode Ciara talks with our host, Simone Dudley, about the importance of building knowledge and finding your voice. Ciara describes how gaining an understanding of best practice empowered her and her husband to find and advocate for the right supports for their son. This, alongside firsthand experience, led them to establish a peer support group for parents and carers of children on the spectrum. Ciara reminds us that with the right information and supports parents and carers are better equipped to make decisions that lead to better outcomes for them and their children.  Download transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au In an effort to continually improve, we are asking our community for feedback on the podcast via this short survey. Please share your thoughts with us :)

In this episode our host Simone Dudley, talks with Kara about her family and work.  Kara is a mum and researcher from Cincinnati, who studies parenting with disabilities. Kara and her husband are both disabled parents of three children with and without disabilities. Listen to Kara as she shares insights into how her family creates a culture that celebrates disability and how she advocates and builds support for people with disabilities through inclusive practices. Download transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au In an effort to continually improve, we are asking our community for feedback on the podcast via this short survey. Please share your thoughts with us :)

In this episode, we hear from Falak, a mother, wife and research and evaluation manager at Rare Voices Australia (RVA). Falak talks with our host, Simone Dudley about her children, two of whom have rare diseases and how her lived experience has deepened her professional role at RVA. In this conversation, Falak helps to remind us of the importance of trusting our instincts as we continually build our capacity. She also describes the power of gratitude and how giving back to communities that supported her and her family, created a sense of belonging and purpose. Download transcript here >> www.rarevoices.org.au www.heartkids.org.au www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode, our host Simone Dudley talks with Cassie (Emily's mum) about her experience with early supports and pioneering the NDIS. Cassie talks about the need for professionals to recognise the strengths of children and work from these when developing goals with the family. Goals for Cassie and her family needed to reflect the values they held strong for Emily. These included having the same opportunities and experiences that Emily's siblings had, and being and belonging in her everyday life and community. These align so well with the principles of family-centred and strengths-based practice, and inclusive approaches as outlined in the National Early Childhood Intervention Best Practice Guidelines. Cassie provides great insights for families who are starting their journey and for professionals to learn from. Download transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode we are joined again by Leanne (Angus's mum). This time, Leanne talks with our host Simone Dudley about her personal story of being identified 10 years after her son as autistic and ADHD. Leanne describes how the process of being identified has really helped with understanding herself and with the way she supports her son. Download the transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode, our host Simone Dudley talks with Leanne about what life was like living in an extremely remote location in Australia, while navigating therapy supports and education for her son, Angus. In this remarkable story, hear how Leanne made the most of her family's circumstance while achieving Angus's goals through telehealth and home education. Download the transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au We would like to welcome Simone Dudley as the new Family Voices Podcast host.

In this episode, our host Trish McIvor talks with Dee, Emma's mum and co-founder of Little Stroke Warriors Australia. Dee shares her story about co-founding Little Stroke Warriors after Emma was diagnosed as having a stroke while in utero. Dee talks about how her own experience has forged the need for improved resources and treatment of paediatric childhood stroke and how this is coming to fruition. She also shares personal insights and on how to be the best support for your child. Little Stroke Warriors Australia website >>   Download transcript here >>

In this episode, our host Dr Kerry Bull talks with Penny (Al's mum). Penny shares her insights and wisdom about being an advocate and how this has shaped an incredible path for Al. Being an advocate and accessing support can be a powerful influence in children's wellbeing, inclusion, participation and contribution to family and community life. We hope you enjoy this inspiring story. In this episode, we mention a video featuring Al's story. To watch on YouTube, please click here >> Download the transcript here >> In an effort to continually improve, we are asking our community for feedback on the podcast via this short survey. Please share your thoughts with us :) www.eciavic.org.au This is Kerry's final episode as the Family Voices Podcast host. We thank Kerry for her invaluable contribution and wish her all the very best.

In this episode, Dr Kerry Bull talks with Maya (Lloyd's mum) about her experience of being a young mum of a child with a disability and the importance of being heard. Maya talks about the need for professionals to assume competence of parents. This phrase fits so well with the principles outlined in the National Early Childhood Intervention Best Practice Guidelines. The guidelines highlight concepts like family-centered and strength-based practices, that are based on an understanding that parents know their child best and have valuable information and insights from professionals to learn from.  Download the transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au Please take our survey

In the second part of a two-part series on family wellbeing, our host Dr Kerry Bull talks with Fiona about her own wellbeing. Fiona talks about the importance of family, friends, and professionals in forming a network of support and the value of sharing with each other. These, as well as a strong partnership with her husband, played a significant role in Fiona's personal health and happiness. Download the transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au Association for Children with a Disability - https://www.acd.org.au/ Amaze - https://www.amaze.org.au/ Raising Children Network - https://raisingchildren.net.au/ Beyond Blue -  https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ Carers Gateway - https://www.carergateway.gov.au/  

In the first part of a two-part series, Fiona talks about her whole family's wellbeing. As a mother of four children, two diagnosed with autism, Fiona talks about the role of early information and education, parent support groups and the importance of trusting relationships. Fiona highlights the enormous role that community connections played in the wellbeing of all members of her family. Download the transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au Association for Children with a Disability - https://www.acd.org.au/ Amaze - https://www.amaze.org.au/ Raising Children Network - https://raisingchildren.net.au/ Beyond Blue -  https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ Carers Gateway - https://www.carergateway.gov.au/  

In this episode, Dr Kerry Bull talks with Sarah (Ben's mum) about their journey with Autism. Sarah described a thorough assessment for Ben which led to a diagnosis of autism and global developmental delay. She describes how the diagnosis gave the family a way forward and the help they needed at that time. If you're concerned about your child's development, talk with someone you trust, like your maternal and child health nurse or GP, who can refer you to a paediatrician. Download the transcript here>> www.eciavic.org.au

is a special edition of The Family Voices Podcast. Early Childhood Intervention Australia VIC/TAS, has partnered with the Department of Health to share key messages with you about COVID safe behaviours and up-to-date vaccine information. This episode has been recorded on 15 December 2022. It's important to remember that advice may change, and you can keep in touch with COVID information through the Victorian Department of Health website. Professor Margie Danchin from the Murdoch Children's Research Institute at the Royal Children's Hospital is joining us today to discuss COVID safe information, particularly in relation to young children with disabilities and their families. Download the transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au  

In this episode, our host Dr Kerry Bull talks with Jason (Jude's dad). Jason talks about the importance of being open when there are concerns about the development of children and how this leads to getting the supports needed. Jason talks about how he and his wife, Jess have guided the process of forming a team around Jude and the important role of his family and friends being central to this. Hear about, how Jude's development was supported within everyday family life, at home, kindergarten and childcare, along with support of a team through the NDIS. Download the transcript here>> www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode, our host Dr Kerry Bull talks with Ruth and Collin. Ruth and Collin share their experience in the early years and how best practice achieved best outcomes for their daughter. Ruth and Collin talk about the work of their key worker and having seasons of support. They also share a heartfelt account of what this meant to them, and how best practice has shaped their lives.   Download the transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au  

In this episode, our host Dr Kerry Bull talks with Pam. Pam's perspective about being a grandmother and her changing role in the family really reflects what we know from research about the practical and emotional support grandparents can provide when there's a child with a disability or development delay in the family. But also, her reliable information and great communication in the family helps with that support. At the end of the conversation, Pam summed up what she thought were the most important things to share with other grandparents.  Download the transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au  

In this episode, our host Dr Kerry Bull talks with Kate (Bridget's mum). Kate has a clear long-term vision about Bridget reaching her potential which includes having meaningful work, having friends, and living independently. Kate talks us through how she double checks that every decision they make to support Bridget is in line with their vision. And of course, Bridget has dreams and aspirations of our own, see: bridget_does_art. Download the transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode, our host Dr Kerry Bull talks with Lisa (Sean's mum). Putting friendships at the top of the list among the busyness of family life, Lisa shares practical strategies with us like using structure and shared interests, and also what she called sealing the deal, not leaving opportunities to chance. She acknowledged that this took perseverance and even courage at times, but we found her description of Sean's ordinary and extraordinary life now as a young man really uplifting and we think you will as well. Download the podcast transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode, our host Dr Kerry Bull talks with Kate Strohm from Siblings Australia. Kate discusses the complex and ever-changing relationships between siblings, including added complexities when one sibling has a disability. She shares ways practical ways parents can help children feel listened to and understood, and thoughts about how parents can help build strong relationships between siblings. www.siblingsaustralia.com.au Download the podcast transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode, our host Dr Kerry Bull talks with Stacey (Alex's mum). Stacey paints a vivid picture of her two very different experiences with early childhood intervention programs, describing the paths her family has travelled and the different approaches along the way. Stacey uses words and phrases like 'family-centered', 'embedded learning in daily routine', 'natural opportunities for learning', 'incorporating the strengths of their family', 'building their capacity' and 'having a partnership with therapists'. These elements of early intervention are all part of our national best practice guidelines. The guidelines provide an overview of the latest research and advice on services and supports for young children with a disability or developmental delay. Download the podcast transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au National Guidelines: Best Practice in Early Childhood Intervention Resources for families

In this episode, Dr Kerry Bull talks to Sam about her growing confidence in navigating systems. Sam also talks about her increasing sense of agency in terms of developing the ability to make good choices and being empowered or energised to take action, to achieve the results her family needs. Sam speaks so strongly about the choices she makes, and how her choices change over time to meet her son's needs as he grows up. Download podcast transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au Tell us what you think of the podcast series!  

In this episode, Dr Kerry Bull talks with Debbie about the expectations others had of her. As an infant, the prevailing thoughts at the time focussed on what was seen as her deficits, anticipation that she would be unable to walk, talk, and learn, and be part of family and community life. But her family had other ideas. So did a teacher who gave her the opportunity for an education alongside her siblings and the other children in the neighbourhood. These high expectations in part enabled Debbie to thrive.  Download podcast transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au

In our final podcast for 2021, ECIA VIC/TAS' Sarah and Trish sit down with our host Dr Kerry Bull to look back and reflect on the inspiring conversations we've had on our podcast throughout the year. Sincerest thanks to all the parents and professionals who have shared their experiences with us. We've been truly humbled by our amazing community's strength, honesty and willingness to participate. Although each family's situation is unique, we know sharing and hearing these real-life stories helps others in similar situations relate, reinforcing they're not alone. We know truth-telling is a critical element in helping support and build families' knowledge, skills and confidence when navigating the early childhood intervention landscape. If you've previously tuned in to The Family Voices podcast and have a spare two minutes, in an effort to continually improve, we are asking our community for feedback on the podcast via a short survey. To take part, please click here >>  Download podcast transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode, Dr Kerry Bull talks with Bec. Hearing Bec share her family story made us think about the changes we all have to make in our lives, and the ways we adapt. Bec talked about being a young mum who not only needed to adjust to being a parent, she also had to adjust to being the parent of a baby with significant health concerns. To gather information, Bec used the internet, spoke with professionals she trusted and talked through things with her family who were also important to her for emotional support as she moved from a position of uncertainty to having a clearer understanding. Download podcast transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode, Dr Kerry Bull sits down with Alicia to talk about how she has approached advocating on behalf of her son. Alicia thinks about advocacy in terms of teamwork - learning together, understanding each others' perspective and finding common ground.  Download podcast transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode Dr Kerry Bull talks with Nena, Yasmin and Lucy to discuss how they work together as a collaborative and integrated team to support Nena's daughter. The goal is to build the knowledge, skills and abilities of the people who spend the most time with the child in order to have as great an impact as possible on the child's learning and development. Download podcast transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode Dr Kerry Bull talks with Rahima. Rahima shares her family's story through the lens of diversity of cultures, experiences, values and belief systems that impacts our attitudes and understandings. Download podcast transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode, Dr Kerry Bull talks with Jody (Charlotte's mum). Jody talks about her family's experience and shares her practical approaches to working with others in supporting her daughter. The key messages Jody wants to share with other families are centred around advocacy and trusting your gut. Download podcast transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode, Dr Kerry Bull talks with Brian (Miranda's dad) about the journey that he and his wife undertook to gain a diagnoses for their young daughter and what that meant for their family. Brian shares some practical hints and tips that they found helpful and also what they also learnt along the way. Download podcast transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode Dr. Kerry Bull sits down for a chat with Kate (Miriam's mum) about her experiences with early intervention services with a particular focus on decision-making – a topic that's of real interest to lots of families. Download podcast transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode, our host Dr Kerry Bull sits down for a conversation with Chris (Liam's mum), focusing on the key worker model. The key worker model is a team of therapists, specialists and teachers who work very closely together to provide support for a child. One professional is nominated as key worker who becomes the family's primary contact. Tune in to hear how this approach is working for Chris and Liam. Download podcast transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au

In this episode Dr Kerry Bull talks to Trish (Erin's mum) about her family. The focus of this conversation centres around inclusion and Trish's family's approach to ensure that their daughter developed a strong sense of belonging. Download transcript here >> www.eciavic.org.au