Introducing Hastings Kids Nest
Introducing Hastings Kids NEST
As parents, we often know when something doesn't quite feel right. Perhaps your child is taking a little longer to develop certain skills, you're wondering about their communication, movement, feeding, behaviour, or learning, or maybe you simply have questions and aren't sure where to start.
For many families, knowing where to go for support can feel overwhelming.
That's why we created Hastings Kids NEST.
What is Hastings Kids NEST?
NEST stands for Nurture Early, Support Together.
Hastings Kids NEST is a FREE early childhood support program designed to help families access guidance, information, screening, and support when they have questions about their child's development.
The program was developed through a collaboration between local families, health professionals, educators, disability advocates and community organisations who identified a common challenge: families often struggle to find the right support at the right time.
We know that early support can make a significant difference, but we also know that many families face barriers such as long waitlists, uncertainty about referral pathways, cost concerns, or simply not knowing where to begin.
NEST was designed to bridge that gap.
Who is NEST for?
NEST is available for families of young children, particularly those aged 0–3 years, who may:
Have developmental concerns or questions
Be experiencing challenges with communication, movement, feeding, play, behaviour, or learning
Need guidance about what is typical development and what may benefit from further support
Be seeking advice about services, supports, or referrals
Simply want reassurance and information from experienced professionals
You do not need a diagnosis, referral, or funding package to access NEST.
What happens during a NEST appointment?
Every family is different, so every NEST appointment is tailored to your needs.
During your 30 minute appointment, our multidisciplinary team may:
Listen to your concerns and answer questions
Explore your child's strengths and interests
Discuss developmental milestones and individual differences
Complete developmental screening (this is typically informal through observations)
Provide practical strategies you can use at home
Help you understand possible next steps
Connect you with services, supports, or community resources if needed
Our goal is not to label children or create unnecessary worry. Instead, we aim to help families feel informed, supported, and confident in understanding their child's unique development.
A Child-Led, Family-Centred Approach
At Hastings Kids NEST, we believe that families are the experts in their children.
Our approach is strengths-based, neuro-affirming, and family-centred. We recognise that children develop in different ways and at different rates, and we work alongside families to understand what support may be helpful for their individual child.
Whether your child requires ongoing support, a simple strategy, or just reassurance that they're on the right track, we are here to help.
Why Early Support Matters
Early support isn't about rushing children or focusing on what they can't do.
It's about recognising opportunities to nurture development, build family confidence, and address challenges before they become bigger barriers.
Sometimes a single conversation can provide the information and reassurance a family needs. Other times, it can help connect families to services and supports that make a meaningful difference.
Either way, early support helps families feel less alone on their journey.
Working Together for Our Community
Hastings Kids NEST has been made possible through funding from Healthy North Coast and has been developed in partnership with our local community.
The program reflects what families told us they needed: accessible, welcoming support that focuses on the whole child and family.
We are proud to offer this service and look forward to supporting local children and families to thrive.
Ready to Learn More?
If you have questions about your child's development, or simply want to better understand what support may be available, we encourage you to reach out.
Early support starts with a conversation.
