ENVISAGE Families

Empowering families with practical tools, peer support and real connection.

Mother holding her young daughter as they smile at each other

Connect Paediatric Therapy Services is proud to be delivering the ENVISAGE Families Program—an evidence-informed, peer-led program designed to support parents and caregivers of children aged 0–8 years with developmental concerns, disability or who are neurodivergent.

Parenting a young child with additional support needs can sometimes feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. ENVISAGE combines practical strategies, professional guidance and genuine peer connection to help families feel more confident, informed and supported throughout their parenting journey.

Ready to learn more? Register your interest in the ENVISAGE Families Program with Connect Paediatric Therapy Services.

When completing the Expression of Interest form, please mention in the comments that you are interested in a program hosted by Connect Paediatric Therapy Services.

What is ENVISAGE?

ENVISAGE Families is a fully funded program that brings together health professionals and parents with lived experience to provide practical support, shared learning and meaningful connection.

Throughout the program you’ll gain practical strategies, build confidence in supporting your child and connect with other families who truly understand the journey.

You’ll also have access to valuable resources that you can continue using long after the workshops have finished.

How the Program Works

Five Weekly Workshops

The program is delivered across five live, interactive workshops, each running for approximately 90 minutes.

Engaging & Practical

Each workshop includes expert information, group discussion and hands-on activities designed to help you apply what you’ve learned in everyday life.

Small Group Connection

You’ll join a small group of parents and caregivers, creating a supportive environment where experiences, ideas and encouragement can be shared.

Expert & Peer-Led

Each session is co-facilitated by a Connect Paediatric Therapy Services professional and a parent with lived experience, combining professional knowledge with genuine understanding and empathy.

Ongoing Resources

Participants receive access to an online learning platform containing workshop slides, resources and discussion boards to continue learning between sessions.

Your Five-Week Journey

Week 1

Health and Wellbeing in Early Child & Family Development

Explore the foundations of child and family wellbeing and learn strategies to support healthy development.

Week 2

Child and Family Development

Gain a deeper understanding of your child’s development and the important role families play in supporting growth.

Week 3

Parenting is a Dance Led by Your Child

Discover practical approaches to responsive parenting and strengthening everyday interactions with your child.

Week 4

Looking After Myself

Learn why caring for yourself is an essential part of caring for your child, with practical strategies for maintaining your own wellbeing.

Week 5

Communicating, Collaborating & Connecting

Develop confidence in communicating with professionals, advocating for your child and building supportive relationships within your community.

Is ENVISAGE Right for Me?

This program is designed for parents and caregivers of children aged 0–8 years who:

  • Have developmental concerns
  • Have a disability
  • Are neurodivergent

No diagnosis or NDIS plan is required to participate.

Whether you’re at the beginning of your journey or simply looking for additional support and connection, ENVISAGE provides practical tools and a welcoming community of families who understand.

Learn More About ENVISAGE

ENVISAGE is an evidence-informed program developed through a collaboration between Australian Catholic University, McMaster University, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and The University of Melbourne.

ENVISAGE – Enabling Visions and Growing Expectations

Register Your Interest

To register your interest in the ENVISAGE Families Program, please complete the ENVISAGE Expression of Interest form.

IMPORTANT:
When completing the form, please mention in the comments that you are interested in a program hosted by Connect Paediatric Therapy Services.