We are very excited to release our Community Report of the Let’s Play/MoSAIC research! This first-of-its-kind research evaluated two programmes for early identification and support of autistic/takiwātanga tamariki. The results underscore the value of these programmes: Early identification and interim support are essential for whanau wellbeing. Read the community report for the detail or check out the shorter summary below!
Community report – MoSAIC and Let’s Play – final
Early identification of autism is critical, as early support improves health and wellbeing for Autistic children and their caregivers. However, in Aotearoa New Zealand, long waitlists and a shortage of trained professionals mean many families face delays in accessing diagnoses and support.
This study evaluated two programmes designed to address these gaps: MoSAIC training for educators and the Let’s Play programme for caregivers.
Phase One a MoSAIC programme trained 73 Auckland early childhood educators to recognise early signs of autism. The training significantly increased their knowledge and confidence and was rated highly for cultural appropriateness.
Phase Two introduced Let’s Play, a caregiver-led Developmental-Relational Intervention delivered through group workshops and 1:1 coaching with 91 families. For those families selected for the programme results showed improved caregiver-child engagement, increased caregiver confidence, enhanced child health, and reduced parental stress.
Overall, the study demonstrates that early identification and interim support are essential to improving outcomes for autistic children and their families. By combining MoSAIC educator training with caregiver-focused supports like Let’s Play, it’s possible to reduce misdiagnosis, offer earlier support, and ease the burden on families waiting for formal services.