How do you communicate with the parent / carer whose child has SEND?
Parents are involved in their child's learning from the start. I ask parents to tell me about their child's skills and interests, to contribute ideas and have regular verbal and written exchanges about their child's learning and development. I use Online Daily Diaries and produce regular Newsletters and have a Working with Parents in partnership Policy.
How do you help children settle into your setting?
When your child initially joins my setting, they will be offered introductory sessions when parents are invited to stay too (Depending on Government pandemic rules and guidelines). These sessions are intended to be a gentle introduction into the setting to get to know me, the other children, and their new environment. You will be asked to complete a Child Information form and an All About Me profile about your child’s strengths and needs, and you will be able to discuss any concerns or requirements your child may have.
I am the key person for the children who attend, this means that I am always available to your child and ensure I support your child to reach their full potential. You will be invited to share your unique knowledge of your child and add regular comments to our online daily diary and Learning Journal about the experiences your child has at home which will be incorporated into their learning here.
What help and support does your setting offer to children with SEND as they move rooms or move on to school?
Transitions are a key time for any child. It is my role to ensures that these transitions are well planned and supported. When a child first starts at the setting. I will work with the parent to devise appropriate times for the child to settle in at their own pace. When a child transitions to another setting. I work to relay and hand over relevant information for that child. I ensure the new setting is aware of that the child’s interests and needs are catered for and that the child is well adjusted to their new setting and peers. When a child is ready to transition to School. I will complete relevant transition supporting documents to ensure a smooth transition takes place for all children.
How do you find out how each child likes to learn?
I complete regular observations of children, these may be in writing, as a photograph or a visual observation. I consider the individual child’s Characteristics of Effective Learning How they play and explore How they actively learn – does the child concentrate and keep on trying if they encounter difficulties, and enjoy achievements, Is the child creating and thinking critically, for instance is the child having their own ideas, , and developing strategies for doing things. Along with the knowledge gained through conversations and handovers with parents and carers I create a stimulating environment to support the individual children’s learning.
Inclusive practice / SEND training and expertise within this organisation
I regularly undertake training to improve my knowledge and I am happy to undertake any relevant training for specific children in my care.