TOP5 for children with special needs

Children with special needs may rely on familiar routines, communication styles, sensory supports or calming strategies to feel safe and comfortable. TOP5 helps carers and staff share these important insights so everyone understands what works best for the child.

These strategies support care that is safe, respectful and reflects the child’s needs and preferences.

Why TOP5 is helpful for children

TOP5 helps staff, teachers, support workers and health professionals:

  • understand how best to communicate with the child
  • recognise sensory needs or sensitivities
  • respond consistently across different environments
  • reduce distress, confusion or anxiety
  • support smoother transitions between home, school and health services
  • provide care that aligns with what matters to the child and their family

TOP5 is especially helpful for children who:

  • have developmental delay
  • experience communication difficulties
  • live with autism
  • have sensory processing differences
  • rely on routine or structure
  • become distressed in unfamiliar environments 

What to include in a child‑focused TOP5

 A TOP5 list may include:

  • communication cues (preferred words, gestures, pacing)
  • sensory preferences (noise, lighting, touch, temperature)
  • routines that help the child feel settled
  • strategies that reduce distress or prevent escalation
  • mobility or safety considerations
  • comfort measures or calming activities
  • supports that help with understanding or decision‑making

 Examples:

  • “I respond best to simple, clear instructions.”
  • “I need extra time to process information before responding.”
  • “I become overwhelmed in noisy or crowded spaces.”
  • “I settle when given choices rather than directions.”
  • “I feel calm when holding my comfort item.” 

How TOP5 supports children across settings

 TOP5 can be used:

  • at home
  • in early childhood services
  • at school
  • during hospital visits or admissions
  • in therapy or support sessions
  • when transitioning between services
  • when behaviours change or the child becomes unsettled

Sharing TOP5 across all settings helps everyone respond in a consistent and supportive way.

Working together

Carers and staff create TOP5 together. Carers share what works well at home or in familiar environments, and staff add observations from school, therapy or clinical settings. This shared approach helps the child feel understood and supported wherever they receive care.

TOP5 can be updated at any time if the child’s needs or preferences change.

 

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