It is important that any additional support a child receives at their school or setting is clearly explained to parents/carers at the earliest opportunity. For some parents/carers, learning that their child has been identified as needing additional support can be unexpected and may provoke worry or concerns. It is therefore important that all staff, led and supported by the SENCO, clearly explain to parents/carers what is being put in place and why.
- For children identified as having SEND, parents/carers should have clear information about what this means, as well as what support is in place, when progress will be reviewed and with whom. Parents/carers and children should be fully included in planning support and reviewing progress (see participation and co-production section).
- Information, support and guidance for parents/carers of children with SEND is available and it is helpful to have this information readily available within the setting as well as on the website. Some parents/carers may need support from a professional who can advocate for them.
- A jargon-buster document has been created to support parents/carers and children with the language and roles around SEND.
- Information for parents/carers and children about the graduated approach and SEND processes is available and is also referred to in the graduated approach section of these webpages.
Our Portage Worker really helped by explaining the developmental milestones and how babies reach these and helped us decide where the focus of his play/sensory needs were.
Her expertise on child development was very helpful; as parents we don’t really think about baby and toddler communication unless there is a delay.