Getting to grips with the world of SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) can feel overwhelming at times, especially in the early years when things are just beginning to fall into place. If you’re wondering what support is available for your little one before they have an EHCP, you’re not alone.
At Fun and Play, we know that navigating preschool support can feel like a maze. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help families understand the steps nurseries can take to support children with additional needs, even before an EHCP is in place.
Recognising SEND needs in early years settings
Support often starts with recognition. You or your child’s key person at nursery might notice they are finding some things more difficult – this could include social interaction, emotional regulation, communication, or physical development.
Whether your child has a known or suspected diagnosis like autism or ADHD, or you’re simply observing behaviours that show they need extra help, the important thing is that their needs are acknowledged. Being registered as needing SEND support means your child is recognised within the setting as needing extra help, and it’s the first step towards putting that support in place.
How nurseries support children before an EHCP is in place
Even if your child does not have an EHCP yet, nurseries and preschools can still provide a range of support to help meet their needs.
👩🏫 The role of the SENCO
Every nursery or preschool should have a SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator). This person plays a key role in supporting your child’s journey. They might carry out observations, work with other professionals, and help develop a clear picture of what your child needs. The SENCO can also support transitions when your child moves to another setting.
💰 Early years inclusion funding (SENIF)
Nurseries can apply for SENIF or similar early intervention funding from the local authority. This can help provide one-to-one support or other tailored resources, even without an EHCP. For example, some settings can apply for 15 hours of 1:1 support through SENIF, which is based on your child’s needs. The funding comes from the local council, and nurseries need to apply directly to access it.
📝 Individual support and care plans
Settings often use Individual Support Plans or behaviour plans for children with emerging needs. In Surrey, you might also come across the Surrey Care Plan. These plans outline targets, strategies, and the specific help your child receives. They are reviewed regularly and are part of the evidence base if an EHCP is needed later.
📄 Using DLA to unlock extra support
Some nurseries can access additional funding if your child receives Disability Living Allowance (DLA). This does not replace the need for other support, but it can help secure extra staffing or resources. In some cases, funding of around £1,000 per term might be available to settings for children with DLA. While this can vary, it is worth exploring, especially if your child has higher care needs.
🧾 Getting your child on the SEN register
If your child has been assessed by professionals such as a paediatrician, they might be added to your local authority’s SEN register. This helps ensure that your child’s needs are known early, and it may help with planning transitions to nursery or school.
Starting the EHCP process early
While nurseries can and should provide support without an EHCP, starting the application process while your child is still in early years can be beneficial. EHCPs can take time, and starting early gives more room to gather evidence and understand the process.
It’s also worth knowing that nurseries have a duty to meet children's needs under the SEND Code of Practice, whether or not an EHCP is in place. That means they are expected to make reasonable adjustments and follow the graduated response of assess, plan, do, review.
🌟 Helping every child feel included
Every child deserves to feel included, understood, and supported in their early years setting. Knowing what support is available – and what your nursery or preschool can do even before a formal plan is in place, can help you feel more confident and informed.
👶 Whether you’re just beginning to notice your child might need extra support, or you’re already partway through the EHCP journey, there are options out there. From SENCOs and support plans to funding and local authority involvement, your child’s early years can still be filled with fun, play, and the right help to thrive.
💬 Have you accessed support for your little one in nursery or preschool before getting an EHCP? Share your experiences or tips in the comments!