Discovering that your child may have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) can be an emotional and challenging experience. As a parent or carer, it’s natural to feel uncertain about what to do next, but it’s important to know that you’re not alone, and help is available. In this article, we’ll explore the key steps to take when you suspect your child has SEND, from understanding the signs to accessing the right support for your child’s needs.
How do I know if my child has Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)?
SEND can present in a wide range of ways, and it’s important to understand that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Recognising the signs early is key to ensuring your child gets the appropriate support they need at the right time. Every child’s needs are unique, and identifying these signs can help guide you towards accessing the right resources and interventions. Some common signs to look out for include:
- Learning challenges: This may involve difficulty with reading, writing, or understanding instructions. Your child may seem to take longer than their peers to grasp certain concepts.
- Social and emotional struggles: Difficulty in making friends, understanding social cues, or managing emotions in group settings can be indicative of SEND.
- Speech and language difficulties: Challenges with communication, whether it’s speaking, understanding language, or processing information, can be an early indicator.
- Sensory sensitivities: Some children with SEND may be unusually sensitive to sensory stimuli, such as loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures, which can impact their behaviour and learning.
- Motor difficulties: Struggles with coordination or tasks like tying shoelaces, using a pencil, or participating in physical activities could suggest a motor-related SEND.
Noticing these signs early and seeking support is essential to understanding your child’s needs.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Identifying and addressing Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) early can significantly impact a child’s development. Early intervention allows for tailored support at a critical stage in a child’s growth, enhancing their ability to learn and thrive. Research shows that when SEND needs are addressed early, children are more likely to make progress academically, socially, and emotionally.
For example, early support can help children with speech delays or learning difficulties catch up with their peers, preventing these issues from escalating. According to the Department for Education and the National Autistic Society, early intervention not only improves educational outcomes but can also prevent mental health challenges by providing the right support from the start. Working with professionals early on ensures children receive appropriate resources and strategies, setting a strong foundation for future success.
Seeking Professional Advice
Once you’ve noticed signs of SEND, the next step is to seek professional advice. Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming, but it’s a key part of ensuring your child gets the support they need. Here’s some guidance on how to approach professionals:
- Talk to your child’s Teacher
Teachers are often the first to notice signs of SEND. Schedule a meeting to discuss your concerns, providing specific examples of struggles you’ve observed at home or school. Teachers can give insights and track patterns to determine if further support is needed. - Involve the SENCO
The Special Educational Needs Coordinator, or SENCO, coordinates SEND support in schools. If needed, they can assess your child’s needs and initiate tailored interventions or support plans, including guidance on applying for an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP). - Consult Healthcare Providers
Healthcare professionals such as your GP, paediatrician, or clinical psychologist can play a crucial role in diagnosing and supporting SEND. They can refer your child to specialists, such as speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, or educational psychologists, for more detailed assessments. The NHS Website provides helpful information on the types of healthcare professionals involved in SEND and the process of referral. - Document Your Concerns
Keep a record of specific challenges and struggles your child faces. This can help professionals better understand the scope of concerns and support the development of a plan. - Be open to follow-up and collaboration
After initial meetings, continue working collaboratively with professionals to monitor progress and adjust support as necessary. Regular follow-ups help ensure that the interventions remain effective and that your child’s needs are met.
The SEND Assessment Process
If your child is struggling at school and you suspect they have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), an assessment can help identify their needs and ensure they receive the support they require. Once you have a referral from a teacher, SENCO or healthcare professional, your child will be assessed to determine their specific needs.
- Preparation
To ensure any assessments go smoothly, gather relevant documentation such as school reports, medical history, and any previous notes or observations from teachers or specialists. Being informed about the process can also help you support your child and manage any anxieties they may have. - Educational Assessments
These assessments focus on your child’s learning abilities, using standardised tests, observations, and one-to-one sessions with specialists. The goal is to pinpoint academic strengths and difficulties, including any issues with reading, writing, or social skills. - Medical Assessments
If a neurodevelopmental condition such as autism or ADHD is suspected, a referral to a paediatrician or clinical psychologist may be necessary. They will assess the child’s behaviour and developmental history to identify any underlying conditions. These conditions are neurodevelopmental, impacting how children develop and interact with the world, rather than medical conditions in the traditional sense. - Post-Assessment Steps
After the assessment, the results will help determine the next steps. This could include recommendations for additional support at school or the initiation of an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP), which outlines tailored support for your child’s specific needs.
By understanding the SEND assessment process, you can better navigate the steps needed to secure the appropriate support for your child’s needs.
Support Systems Available
Families of children with SEND can access a variety of support systems, each designed to provide practical assistance and emotional guidance. Local authorities offer educational provisions and services such as SENDIASS (Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice and Support Services), which provide impartial advice and can help with applying for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
National charities such as The National Autistic Society, Contact, and ADDISS offer expert advice and connect families with others in similar situations. They can help navigate challenges related to diagnosis, funding, and support services.
Government provisions, including Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and specialist educational support through the SEND Code of Practice, ensure children receive the care and support they need at school. Online communities like Mumsnet and Netmums also host SEND-specific forums where parents can share experiences and advice.
At Horizon Care and Education, we offer a range of services, including children’s homes, specialist schools, and supported accommodation, all tailored to meet the needs of children with SEND. If you’re looking for a supportive and nurturing environment for your child, contact us to learn more about how we can help.
