How early years and childcare providers support children with SEND

Find out how nurseries, playgroups and childminders can provide advice and work with you and your child to provide support with their special educational needs or disabilities.

How childcare providers support SEND children

Nurseries, playgroups and childminders registered with Ofsted follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, which is explained on the GOV.UK website.

The framework states what they must do to make sure children with special educational needs or disabilities are supported to learn, develop and have the same opportunities as other children.

SEND assessments at nursery or playgroup

Your child's nursery or playgroup will let you know if they think your child has special educational needs. They will use the assess, plan, do and review process to support your child, also known as graduated approach.

The nursery or playgroup will work with you to:

  • assess your child’s needs
  • plan support for them, focusing on the results you are aiming for
  • do what’s in the plan
  • review your child’s progress

Support at nursery or playgroup

All nurseries and playgroups have a special educational needs coordinator (SENCO). Their job is to:

  • listen to any worries you have about your child’s development
  • support your child and your whole family
  • advise and support other workers at the nursery or playgroup
  • organise support from a local group or organisation

Support from specialist services and nurseries

If your child has more complex needs, they may need support from:

Some children may also need an education, health and care (EHC) assessment.

If your child has been assessed or diagnosed at the Child Development and Disability Service at Seaside View, they may be invited to go to therapy sessions or groups to support their development.

Your child may also get extra support from the Healthy Child Programme team or Specialist Nursing Team. This may be in your own home or in your local Family Hub.