When a Child Needs More Than “Wait and See”: Real-Life SEND Support in Early Years Settings

Hi, I’m Jade Ashman, founder of My Childcare and Me and The Parent Club—but first and foremost, I’m a mum.

One of the most common concerns we hear from parents is: “I think something might be different, but I’m not sure what to do.”

Perhaps your child struggles with communication, finds transitions overwhelming, avoids group activities, or becomes distressed by changes in routine. Often, parents have noticed these signs for months before raising them.

In practice, we regularly support families who arrive feeling worried, confused, or even guilty for questioning whether their child might need additional support. The reality is that early identification is not about labelling a child—it is about understanding them.

According to the NHS, around 1 in 5 children and young people in England are identified as having Special Educational Needs (SEN). Early support can significantly improve outcomes in communication, social development, confidence, and school readiness.

One family we worked with noticed their three-year-old rarely responded to their name and became upset during nursery drop-offs. Rather than adopting a “wait and see” approach, we introduced visual routines, simplified instructions, and worked closely with the family. Over time, the child became more confident, settled more easily, and was able to engage more positively with peers.

Practical Strategies Parents Can Try at Home

• Use simple visual schedules for daily routines.

• Give one instruction at a time rather than multiple steps.

• Prepare children for changes using countdowns or visual timers.

• Create predictable routines for mornings, mealtimes, and bedtime.

• Keep a diary of behaviours, triggers, and successes to help identify patterns.

Helpful resources include visual timetable cards, sand timers, and communication boards, which can reduce anxiety and support understanding.

Most importantly, trust your instincts. Parents often notice concerns long before assessments or referrals take place.

You do not need to have all the answers before seeking support.

If any of this sounds familiar, you are always welcome to come and see how we support children in practice. Sometimes a conversation, an observation, or a small adjustment can make a significant difference to a child's confidence and development.

Have a Question About Your Child's Development?

If you've noticed something that doesn't feel quite right, or you're simply looking for guidance, we'd love to hear from you. No concern is too small when it comes to your child's wellbeing.

Send us a message, ask us a question, or book a visit to see how we support children in practice. Sometimes a simple conversation can provide the reassurance and clarity you're looking for.