If you’re on the waiting list, you’re likely already in touch with key school staff. Remember, the school is part of your team. Your child’s needs are being identified and supported, regardless of a formal diagnosis.
You Are the Expert
Share any information about your child with their teacher and SENCO. They will appreciate your insights and may also be concerned about how best to support your child.
Highlight Strengths and Interests
Sharing your child’s strengths and interests can help motivate them and integrate these into academic and social activities. These can also be soothing for your child.
Spotting and Responding to Anxiety
Inform staff about signs of escalation or anxiety and how to respond. You might be doing this intuitively at home without realizing it. Share specific phrases, noises, or actions you use.
Addressing Concerns
Don’t be discouraged if you’re told you’re ‘over anxious’ or that your child is ‘fine’ at school. Your child might be masking their struggles. Request a meeting to share what you observe at home. If your child can express what helps or hinders them at school, share this information too.
Positive Reinforcement
Ask the school to share photos, work, or positive comments a few times a week. This gives you something positive to share with your child, who might not notice their own achievements.
Individual Presentation
It’s crucial that the school gets to know your child as an individual. Discuss what soothes, what motivates, and what triggers your child. These are key pieces of information to share with the school.
From a Child’s Perspective
Clear Communication
Tell me what to do, by when, and how. Give one instruction at a time, supported with age-appropriate visuals.
Consistency
Consistency in routines and expectations helps me feel secure and understand what is expected of me.
