AEIOU News

Newest centre to help children with autism now open

Wed, 24 Mar 10

After several months of planning and construction, AEIOU – for children with autism's first custom designed centre will be officially opened on 29 March by the Hon Jenny Macklin, Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs and Bill Shorten, Parliamentary Secretary for Disability and Children's Services at 9.30am at Griffith University (Nathan).

This new Autism Specific Early Learning and Care Centre will give young Queensland children with Autism Spectrum Disorders access to specialist early childhood services to help them reach their full potential.

Boasting the most up-to-date motor skills equipment, teaching space and research support, AEIOU Nathan is destined to be the showcase of AEIOU's autism-specific program.

AEIOU CEO, Mr Alan Smith said "the centre provides 31 child care places for children aged 2.5 to 6 years with Autism Spectrum Disorder and is one of six autism specific centres involved with the Rudd Government's $190 million Helping Children with Autism package."

"Our collaboration with Griffith University also means the centre will be able to undertake research and build our knowledge of autism, as well as increasing the number of specialists who understand the condition," he said.

The centre is staffed by trained child care facilitators and will offer programs run by speech pathologists, psychologists, occupational therapists and other professionals experienced in dealing with autism.

Mr Smith said "early intervention and ongoing family support can make a huge difference to each child's quality of life, making it easier for them to attend school and participate in everyday activities."

"Children with autism at the centre will also benefit from highly-structured interaction with other children, to help them grow in confidence and experience playing and learning in groups."

The centre is located on Recreation Road, Griffith University (Nathan campus) and appointments can be made to view the program by calling 1300 273 435.

Media passes to the opening ceremony can be arranged by contacting Samantha Brown on Samantha.brown@aeiou.org.au

The newly constructed facilities at AEIOU Nathan will help children
with autism become more receptive learners.