NDIS helps Cohen brothers follow their passions
Oscar Cohen has a passion for music while older brother Max loves being physically active; both are developing their individual skills thanks to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
The Coorparoo siblings, who have autism, enjoy taking part in music therapy, yoga and circus training, as well as keeping fit through regular exercise.
Their mum, Amanda Farr, said her sons have very different personalities and interests and the NDIS supports them in their goals.
“Music therapy is so much fun. Oscar has made up a few quirky little songs of his own; he takes to the drums and his therapist supports him on guitar.
“For Max, we have fun and also use music therapy to help him emotionally regulate,” Amanda said.
12-year-old Oscar also participates in Motor Active, an exercise program at the University of Queensland (UQ), while 15-year-old Max enjoys playing in Special Olympics basketball.
“Oscar loves Motor Active because he gets to run around and be active, but he also enjoys the social interaction with the UQ students and other children.
“Max loves his basketball for the same reasons. It’s great when you find programs and activities which foster social interaction between the participants.”
Both also enjoy the skills they learn from taking part in circus training, with Max especially liking dodge ball while Oscar likes using the mini tramp.
While the brothers have different and individualised programs to incorporate their strengths, interests and challenges, they also share overarching goals.
“These goals revolve around improving social and language skills, self-regulation, exercise, community participation and independence in daily living skills.
“The boys have a speech therapist and a psychologist who provide ongoing strategies to our team of support workers who work with the boys daily.”
The brothers received assistance to apply for and implement their NDIS funding from Carers Queensland’s NDIS Local Area Coordination Partner in the Community Program for the Brisbane region.
Accessing NDIS support has made a big difference in their lives.
“The support is absolutely critical to their continued development. I think the NDIS is an incredibly important social justice initiative; Australia is setting a high bar for so many countries around the world. We are so grateful,” Amanda said.
Carers Queensland can support you to find out more about the NDIS, to apply for funding and to help you get started with the NDIS.
If you have a disability but are not eligible for the NDIS, Carers Queensland can also help you identify and link to options for support in your community.
To find out more about how the NDIS and Local Area Coordination program can work for you, contact Carers Queensland on 1300 999 636, or cq.enquiries@ndis.gov.au
