Kids and young people

Find advice and resources for you and your young person.

Advice and support

A little boy smiling at the camera at a music therapy class

New to intellectual disability

When you find out your child has a disability, either during pregnancy, at birth, during their early years or later, you may have a range of emotions and questions. This is normal and you are not alone. Getting a diagnosis can be a very difficult and emotional experience however it is often the first step to accessing the care and support that is available.

Find out more

Early childhood education

All intellectually disabled children are entitled to a quality early childhood education to help them do well at school and in life.

Find out more

Starting school

Starting school is a big milestone for everyone. Ensuring children with intellectual disabilities and their families are welcomed and included into local classrooms is a priority for IHC.

Find out more

Dealing with problems with your child’s school

Schools have obligations to children with disabilities and their families based on legislation, policies, strategies and international law.

Find out more

Leaving school

All young people leaving school need support making decisions about what to do next. This means planning for a balanced, enjoyable and rewarding adult life, including making time for recreation and fun and learning how to develop and keep relationships. This is commonly called transition planning.

Find out more

Future planning for parents

Planning will help make sure that the people who matter most to you are provided for if you no longer can look after them.

Find out more

Having fun

Everyone wants the opportunity to have some fun. Social and recreational activities provide a sense of fulfilment and accomplishment, enhance social skills and boost self-esteem.

Find out more

Writing submissions

Submissions are a way to contribute to the decision-making processes of government, councils, Te Whatu Ora - Health New Zealand, government departments and other agencies.

Find out more

Financial help for people with disabilities and their families

Work and Income provides financial help for people with disabilities and their families.

Find out more

Protection from abuse

People of all ages with intellectual disabilities can be at risk of abuse. It’s important to know what you can do to reduce the risk and how to report any safety concerns.

Find out more

Accessing funding for support

Families tell IHC that it is difficult to navigate the disability support system. Getting as much accurate information as you can about what is available in your region will help you access any funding available for your family member.

Find out more

Standing up for your rights

Advocacy is to do with rights. The main goal of advocacy is to ensure that a person’s ‘voice’ is heard and their rights are recognised and realised. Disability Advocacy ensures the human and legal rights of people with disabilities are promoted and protected so that people with intellectual disabilities are valued and they can enjoy satisfying lives.

Find out more

Raising concerns

You may have concerns about the service from a government-funded agency, organisation or service. Government-funded organisations are required to have a complaints process which they should make you aware of.

Find out more

How we can help

Get involved with IHC