Advocate for your child in early years from the very start. Yes, even when they are still tiny! It might feel overwhelming when your little one has Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), but you are not alone. Knowing how to speak up with confidence can make a huge difference, especially in nurseries, playgroups and during the Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) process. At Fun and Play, we are mums and carers who have walked this path, and we’re here to help you feel more confident, informed and ready to work with the people who support your child.
What is a SENCO, and why does it matter? 👩🏫
A SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) is the staff member in your child's nursery or preschool who leads on SEND support. They are there to spot needs, create plans, make referrals and coordinate with professionals. They are your go-to contact in the setting. The earlier you build a strong connection with your SENCO, the better the outcomes for your child.
Start the conversation early 💡
It is never too early to raise concerns, even if you are only just noticing something or have a gut feeling. A SENCO can observe your child in the setting, offer ideas, and signpost you to the right support. You do not need a diagnosis to get help – trust your instincts.
Build a strong partnership with your SENCO 🤝
Communicate regularly 📖
Open and honest communication is essential. Share what is happening at home, especially if your child is finding it harder outside the setting. Some families find a daily communication book helpful. Regular chats, even informal ones, can build trust and consistency.
Share all the information 📁
Give your SENCO any reports or letters you have, including ones from therapists or paediatricians. Describe your child's needs on their hardest days, this gives the full picture. Being realistic is not negative, it is necessary to get the right help in place.
Be confident in your knowledge of your child 💪
You know your child best. If something does not feel right, it is okay to speak up. SENCOs are professionals, but your day-to-day experience is equally important. You are your child's voice, and your confidence will help guide the support they receive.
Understand the SEND system (just a bit!) 🧠
Your SENCO can help you learn about local support, but it is helpful to understand a few basics:
- You do not need a diagnosis to apply for an EHCP.
- Your nursery or preschool can provide observations and evidence.
- You can apply for an EHCP yourself, you do not need to wait.
- SENCOs may suggest Early Intervention Funding (SENIF) for extra help before an EHCP is in place.
- They may also refer you to Speech and Language Therapists (SLT), Occupational Therapists (OT) or Educational Psychologists.
Keeping records of emails, meetings and decisions is also important. It helps you track progress and be ready if issues come up later.
Taking the lead on the EHCP application 📝
Families often find it more efficient to make the EHCP application themselves. It puts you in control and speeds up the process. Here’s how to get started:
- Use templates and guidance from organisations like IPSEA.
- Clearly describe what support your child needs and what the setting is already doing.
- Show that the existing support is not enough and explain why an EHCP is necessary.
- Highlight that your child needs help beyond what is typically expected in a setting (this is called "Ordinarily Available Provision").
An EHCP application takes up to 20 weeks, and having DLA already can support your case. If your application is refused, you can appeal, and services like SOS!SEN can help check documents.
You are not alone 💞
Advocating for your child in early years can be emotional and exhausting. But there is a network of support around you.
Useful organisations:
- IPSEA: for legal guidance around SEND rights
- SOS!SEN: for EHCP advice and document checking
- Action for Carers: for help with DLA forms and advice
- Home Start: for hands-on help with forms and emotional support
- Skylarks: for workshops, family services and EHCP help
You have a team behind you, and Fun and Play is part of that team. Keep going, you are doing brilliantly 💛
FAQs about how to advocate for your child in early years ❓
What is the role of a SENCO in early years?
A SENCO is responsible for identifying and coordinating support for children with SEND in nurseries and preschools. They work with you and outside professionals to create the right support plan.
Can I apply for an EHCP without a diagnosis?
Yes, you can. You do not need a formal diagnosis to start the EHCP process. What matters is evidence of your child's needs and the support already in place.
What if the SENCO disagrees with me?
You have the right to share your views and challenge decisions respectfully. You are the expert on your child, and your input matters.
Is it better for the nursery or the parent to apply for an EHCP?
Either can apply, but parent-led applications often give you more control. You do not need to wait for the setting to apply.
Do I need legal advice to apply for an EHCP?
Not always, but support from services like IPSEA or SOS!SEN can help you understand the process and strengthen your application.