Please note: This page is still being developed, and we're working hard to make sure the information is accurate and helpful for you. If you have any questions, suggestions, or feedback, we’d love to hear from you. You can contact us at SEND.localoffer@bury.gov.uk.
Every Child is Different
All children grow and learn in their own way. It’s normal for them to develop at different speeds and in different styles.
If your child is finding things hard at nursery, school, or college or seems different from others their age- you’re not alone. Many parents and carers feel unsure about what to do next. We’re here to help.
Some children may find it difficult to:
- Learn to read, write, use numbers, or understand lessons
- Talk about how they feel or understand what others are saying
- Make friends or connect with adults
- Cope with certain sounds, lights, or textures
- Manage their emotions, feel calm, or behave in expected ways
- Follow rules or daily routines
- Move around easily, balance, or coordinate their body
If any of this sounds familiar, you might feel overwhelmed. But support is available and we can help you find the right help at the right time.
What to Do Next
If you think your child needs extra support, there are steps you can take. We’ll guide you through them so you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Identify your child's needs
If you're concerned about your child's progress, you should talk to their teacher or the SENCO. They'll discuss with you whether your child falls into one of the four broad areas of need:
- communication and interaction
- cognition and learning
- social, emotional and mental health difficulties
- sensory or physical needs.
The school will then plan extra learning support if they think your child has SEN. They will discuss with you:
- additional support from a teacher or teaching assistant
- special classroom materials and equipment
- observations throughout the day and keeping records
- support to overcome challenges by finding different ways to engage
- support with personal care like eating and dressing.
Here's a great conversation starter toolkit to get you talking to your school.
Find out how your child's school will identify children with special needs (SEN) in its SEN policy. To read your school's policy, visit their website or ask the SENCO.
Assess, plan, do and review (graduated approach)
Over time, your school will finish a 4-part process. It's called the 'assess, plan, do, review cycle' (the graduated approach). This process helps them understand, learn, and decide. It helps them find what is best for your child's progress.