STEPS by MightyKids Rehab

STEPS (Specialised Therapy Enriched Play Sessions) utilises a model of integrated therapy for preschool children (1-5 years) with physical disabilities. Through the provision of this programme, we strive to assist families become better equipped to support and advocate for their child throughout their schooling.

The principles of New Zealand’s Early Childhood Curriculum, Te Whariki, reflect the goals of the proposed integrated therapy and early learning programme. Based on the Te Whariki framework, we provide a therapy rich programme that meet’s both learning and therapy needs for children with physical disabilities.

Click here to find out more and register.

*Feb 2025 - We have received a number of applicants for our sessions for this term. Not to worry, we will be offering more subsidised places and confirming dates for next term soon so please still register your interest. Cerebral Palsy Society of New Zealand financial members will be able to use their GetPhysical funding towards these sessions.

The therapists delivering steps

Jen McKenzie Spurdle is a physiotherapist with over 20 years of experience working with children with physical disabilities. Jen is particularly focused on delivering interventions that seamlessly integrate therapy into early learning environments and the daily routines of both children and their families. Holding a Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education, Jen has further deepened her knowledge and skills in this field. She believes that building positive, trusting relationships is essential to effective therapy and is passionate about equipping parents with the knowledge and resources they need to confidently navigate their child’s therapy journey with success.

Helen Bayldon is a speech-language therapist who is passionate about Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) and literacy for children who do not use speech to meet all their communication requirements. Helen gained her Masters in Speech Language Therapy after completing research on literacy intervention with children with complex physical, cognitive and sensory needs who use partner assisted scanning to access AAC. She has recently become New Zealand's first accredited PODD Presenter. Helen has worked across medical rehabilitation, pre-school and specialist schools and private practice for more than 25 years.  

Jen and Helen have previously delivered  education-based therapy for preschool-aged children through the SMILE and Early Years learning programmes at Carlson School for Cerebral Palsy. They are looking forward to offering the STEPS programme as an opportunity for preschoolers to access the best educational start.