Empowering
Growth,
Inspiring
Potential

Empowering
Growth,
Inspiring
Potential

Occupational Therapy at CFDC

The Centre for Developing Children (CFDC) is committed to promoting growth and development in children and young people through high-quality, evidence-based occupational therapy. CFDC’s supportive and inclusive environment empowers individuals aged 0-25 years to reach their full potential. By building meaningful connections, CFDC lays the foundation for lifelong growth. The centre is dedicated to inspiring positive change and creating opportunities for all children and young people to thrive.

Our Difference

Tailored Support for Every Child

Every child learns differently, and our interventions are tailored to match their unique strengths and needs.

Therapy That Feels Like Play

We believe learning happens best through connection, curiosity, and fun.

Expert Care, Big Hearts

Our professionals bring experience, warmth, and a deep commitment to each child’s success.

Family Centred

Growth happens in and beyond our sessions. By providing caregivers with practical strategies, we ensure families feel confident in supporting their child’s development every day.

How We Help

Early
Intervention

Early Intervention

Support for children ages 0-6 to develop key motor, sensory, and cognitive skills.

Mental Health & Wellbeing Support

Tailored interventions to help children and young adults manage emotional and psychological challenges.

Ayres Sensory Integration®

Techniques to help children process and respond to sensory input for improved daily functioning.

School & Learning Support

Strategies to improve focus, attention, and participation in educational settings.

Self-Care & Independence Skills

Developing essential daily living skills for children and young adults to promote independence.

Transition to Adulthood Support

Helping young adults (16-25) navigate the transition to independent living and employment.

Functional Capacity Assessments

We offer detailed assessments of an individual’s ability to perform daily tasks. This helps guide therapy, NDIS planning, and ensures the right level of support.

Family & Caregiver Support

Guidance for families to better support their child’s development and well-being at home and in the community.

How We Help

Early
Intervention

Early Intervention

Support for children ages 0-6 to develop key motor, sensory, and cognitive skills.

Mental Health & Wellbeing Support

Tailored interventions to help children and young adults manage emotional and psychological challenges.

Ayres Sensory Integration®

Techniques to help children process and respond to sensory input for improved daily functioning.

School & Learning Support

Strategies to improve focus, attention, and participation in educational settings.

Transition to Adulthood Support

Helping young adults (16-25) navigate the transition to independent living and employment.

Self-Care & Independence Skills

Developing essential daily living skills for children and young adults to promote independence.

Family & Caregiver Support

Guidance for families to better support their child’s development and well-being at home and in the community.

Functional Capacity Assessments

We offer detailed assessments of an individual’s ability to perform daily tasks. This helps guide therapy, NDIS planning, and ensures the right level of support.

The Foundations of Development at CFDC

Our Foundations of Development at CFDC guides our therapy and ensures comprehensive, evidence-based support:

Positive Environment

We create a warm, welcoming, and supportive space where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged.

Authentic Relationships

Genuine, trusting relationships with children and families are at the heart of our work. We use DIR Floortime® principles to foster emotional and relational growth.

Central Nervous System

We specialise in Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI) to support sensory processing, motor planning, and emotional regulation.

Emotional Regulation

We help children understand and manage their emotions using cognitive, mindfulness, and sensory regulation strategies, empowering them with skills for everyday life.

The Foundations of Development at CFDC

Our Foundations of Development at CFDC guides our therapy and ensures comprehensive, evidence-based support:

Positive Environment

We create a warm, welcoming, and supportive space where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged.

Authentic Relationships

Genuine, trusting relationships with children and families are at the heart of our work. We use DIR Floortime® principles to foster emotional and relational growth.

Central Nervous System

We specialise in Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI) to support sensory processing, motor planning, and emotional regulation.

Emotional Regulation

We help children understand and manage their emotions using cognitive, mindfulness, and sensory regulation strategies, empowering them with skills for everyday life.

Founder Story

Every child has incredible potential, and with the right support, they can grow, learn, and thrive in their own unique way. As a paediatric occupational therapist, I founded the Centre for Developing Children in 2025 to create a place where children feel understood, families feel empowered, and progress is always celebrated.

At CFDC, we focus on what’s possible. I developed The Foundations of Development at CFDC to guide our child-centred approach—blending my expertise in child development, sensory processing, and mental health to provide personalised, evidence-based support. Whether it’s helping children build confidence in daily activities, strengthening their emotional regulation, or supporting their sensory needs, we meet each child where they are and build from their strengths.

Beyond clinical practice, I am committed to mentoring future therapists and fostering a culture of learning and collaboration, ensuring that every child receives the highest quality care. At CFDC, our focus is on empowering children and young adults with the confidence and skills to navigate life’s challenges. It is a privilege to be part of a community where families are supported, strengths are nurtured, and every step forward is valued.

Raquel Baptista, Cert. ASI®, MOT, BHealthSci (Hons I)
Founder & Principal Occupational Therapist

Founder Story

Every child has incredible potential, and with the right support, they can grow, learn, and thrive in their own unique way. As a paediatric occupational therapist, I founded the Centre for Developing Children in 2025 to create a place where children feel understood, families feel empowered, and progress is always celebrated.

At CFDC, we focus on what’s possible. I developed The Foundations of Development at CFDC to guide our child-centred approach—blending my expertise in child development, sensory processing, and mental health to provide personalised, evidence-based support. Whether it’s helping children build confidence in daily activities, strengthening their emotional regulation, or supporting their sensory needs, we meet each child where they are and build from their strengths.

Beyond clinical practice, I am committed to mentoring future therapists and fostering a culture of learning and collaboration, ensuring that every child receives the highest quality care. At CFDC, our focus is on empowering children and young adults with the confidence and skills to navigate life’s challenges. It is a privilege to be part of a community where families are supported, strengths are nurtured, and every step forward is valued.

Raquel Baptista, Cert. ASI®, MOT, BHealthSci (Hons I)
Founder & Principal Occupational Therapist