Child Development Service — South Canterbury
The Child Development Service assesses tamariki (children) aged 0 to 16 with developmental conditions or a risk of developmental delay, and provides appropriate treatment. If input is required to access the school curriculum we will see your tamaiti (child) until they leave high school. We also monitor the development of premature babies who spend time in neonatal intensive care.
Contact us
To contact the Child Development Service at Timaru Hospital, phone 03 687 2100 (extension 8415).
Where to find us
The Child Development Service is at:
Talbot Park- Community Health Hub
156 Otipua Road
Watlington
Timaru
7910
Hospital map — Timaru Hospital
Services we provide
We provide services for tamariki with physical, intellectual or sensory disabilities. Appointments can be in the clinic, at home or in community settings.
The Child Development Service helps tamariki with conditions including:
- neurological conditions, for example cerebral palsy, developmental coordination disorder/dyspraxia
- developmental delay
- intellectual disability
- motor skill delay
- autism spectrum disorder.
Our team includes an:
- occupational therapist
- physiotherapist
- neurodevelopmental therapist (visiting)
- autism spectrum disorder coordinator
- social worker
- speech-language therapist
- child psychologist
- dietitian.
Referral information
The Child Development Service accepts referrals from:
- health services
- education services
- community agencies.
Whānau (family) and caregivers can also refer their tamaiti to our service.
All referrals must be written with the consent and knowledge of the parent or caregiver.
Referrals must be in writing and contain as much information as possible about the developmental concerns and the input required from our service. It is very helpful if you can provide a report or any additional information.