Action to take if you think your child has a special educational need

Children progress at different rates and have different ways in which they learn best but, if you have concerns, there are a number of things you can do...

Much will depend on the age and severity of the need, as we outline below.

Pre-schooler: Talk to your child's health visitor, nursery or pre-school teacher or  headteacher. They will advise you on action you can take at this stage. For some conditions, medical, behavioural, motor issues (such as dyspraxia) or speech difficulties for example, your GP can be a good first contact. They can refer you to therapists or for further assessments. 

School age children: Find out if the school thinks your child may have difficulties or special needs. Talk to the class-teacher,  SENCo , or head teacher.  Voice your concerns - it may be they haven't spotted things you have - or that they have some concerns which, when coupled with yours, suggest some form of intervention may be appropriate. 

Be prepared: consider whether your child is making the progress expected for their age and if there is anything you can do to help at home. If you make an appointment to speak to an education or health professional be prepared before you meet; write down all the points you want to make, better still keep a diary or record of incidents and experiences that support your case. Remember you know your child best.

If the school (or health professionals) share your concerns, they will decide on the appropriate type and level of support or intervention - usually school action or school action plus in school, or referral to a therapists if you have sought medical help. Exceptionally, medical and/or health professionals may decide your child needs to undergo a statutory assessment , with a view to your child being statemented.  

If the school doesn't share your concerns and you are still not happy with the explanations given, pursue the matter, seeking independent advice or information if necessary. Your GP or health visitor may be able to help. Alternatively seek out independent advice from an educational psychologist . Private EP reports usually cost between £300 and £400 but may be more. Their findings are not binding, a school does not have to act on them but it may be enough to set the ball rolling or to give you peace of mind.

SEN next steps - see

The Special Educational Needs Coordinator

Help for children with SEN at school

School action

Individual education plans (IEPs)

The special needs register

National curriculum and p levels for children with SEN

Professionals who work with children with special educational needs

Statutory assessments and statements of SEN