Two Families, Two Journeys, One Place to Belong
21 Sep 2026Emily and Harrison’s stories highlight how strong partnerships, inclusion and personalised support can help every child feel seen, valued and belong.
Every child experiences the world in their own unique way. For families of children with autism, finding an early learning environment where their child is truly understood can feel like an overwhelming journey. It is about more than care. It is about trust, belonging, acceptance, and the confidence that your child will be celebrated for who they are.
For two families at Nido Redwood Park, that is exactly what they found.
Emily’s Story: A Place Where She Can Be Uniquely Herself
Emily, who is almost two years old, is a bright and affectionate little girl with developmental delay and presumed autism. When her family first began looking for care, they were searching for somewhere she could feel safe and be herself.
“We wanted a centre that felt like home,” her family shared. “A place where Emily could be herself and be supported in her daily activities while learning alongside her peers.”
At Nido, educators adapt experiences so she can enjoy every opportunity in her own unique way. They worked closely with her family, supporting them throughout her diagnostic journey and helping connect them with additional resources when needed.
When paperwork, questionnaires, and funding applications became part of that journey, Nido stepped in to help.
“It put our minds at ease knowing Emily was being cared for by someone who truly had her best interests at heart,” her family said.
Today, Emily’s family has seen her confidence and fine motor skills continue to grow, with educators creating opportunities for her to participate and learn in ways that feel meaningful and comfortable for her.
For Emily’s family, Nido has become far more than childcare.
“It has been more than I ever thought it would be. I thought it would simply be a place where she was safe while we worked. Instead, it’s a place where she can be uniquely herself while learning through experiences and interactions.”
Harrison’s Story: Growing Through Trust and Understanding
For four-year-old Harrison, the journey has looked a little different. Harrison is a loving, energetic four-year-old who adores the outdoors and never says no to a good tickle. He began attending Nido Redwood Park when he was just 12 months old. At the time, his family did not yet know he was autistic.
Like many first-time parents, Harrison’s mum remembers arriving nervous and uncertain. But from the beginning, the Nido team welcomed Harrison with warmth, care and genuine connection.
As a non-speaking child, communication and collaboration have played an important role in his learning journey.
“Harrison’s learning journey isn’t linear and is different to his peers, but the team are happy to adjust,” his family shared.
Through ongoing communication, collaboration with therapists and a willingness to embrace new strategies, educators have worked closely with Harrison and his support network to ensure he feels included and understood.
Most importantly, his family says the team sees Harrison for who he is.
“Harrison is so special and it is really important that people see that and respect him. Just because he is non-speaking doesn’t mean he doesn’t understand.”
The Power of Being Seen
While Emily and Harrison’s stories are different, their families share a common message: the importance of finding a community that sees the child before the diagnosis. Through strong partnerships, personalised support and a genuine commitment to inclusion, Nido Redwood Park continues to create a place where every child can learn, grow and truly belong.
