What Support Should My Child Get as They Go Back to School?

The first days back at school are big for every child. But if your child has special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), they can feel even more significant. Parents often tell me they feel torn between excitement for the new term and anxiety about whether their child will get the right help from the start. I feel that way myself when my children return to school and it’s completely normal to feel this mix of emotions.

The truth is, your child is entitled to support from day one, not once they’ve struggled for weeks or months. So, what should you reasonably expect as your child heads back into the classroom?

SEND Support Exists for All Children Who Need It

It’s important to know that your child does not need an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) to receive help. Schools must provide SEN Support for any pupil who needs extra assistance to access learning and school life.

This support often takes the form of what the law calls “reasonable adjustments”, changes or strategies that make sure your child is not disadvantaged compared to their peers. This applies not just to classroom learning, but also to friendships, social situations, and emotional wellbeing.

What Do Reasonable Adjustments Look Like?

Reasonable adjustments will look different for every child, but they should be practical, consistent, and tailored. Below are some examples of adjustments that many schools could put in place if needed.

In the classroom

• Visual timetables

• Clear and simplified instructions

• Prompts on desks or checklists

In the environment

• Flexible seating or a quieter space to work

• Sensory tools available if needed

In learning approaches

• Extra time to complete tasks

• Movement or sensory breaks

• Differentiated activities

For wellbeing

• A safe adult or place your child can go when overwhelmed

• Regular check-ins to reduce anxiety

• Pastoral or emotional support

Reasonable adjustments are about removing barriers so your child can learn and take part in school life alongside their peers.

Who Might Be Involved in Supporting Your Child

Support is rarely down to one person, it’s a team effort.

• Class teacher: Responsible for ensuring teaching meets your child’s needs.

• Teaching assistants (TAs)/ LSAs (Learning support assistants): Provide small group or individual support and often give day-to-day reassurance.

• Pastoral staff or wellbeing mentors: Help with friendships, behaviour, or emotional regulation.

• SENCo: Oversees support, coordinates strategies, and involves outside agencies if needed.

Communication With Parents Matters

 Support works best when school and home are in regular contact. In these early weeks, you should expect more than just waiting for a termly meeting. A quick chat at pick-up, a short email, or a note home can make a big difference.

A great starting question to ask is:

“What reasonable adjustments are already in place for my child this term?”

This gives you a clear picture of what’s happening day to day.

If You’re Concerned

If things don’t feel right:

1. Start with the class teacher, they see your child most often.

2. If concerns continue, arrange to meet the SENCo.

3. Remember: support should be reviewed and adapted if it isn’t working. It should never be a “wait and see” situation.

Your insights as a parent are vital. You see your child in different situations, and your voice helps shape the support they receive. It can also help school staff to know if there are changes at home and how your child is managing day-to-day, this allows them to better understand your child and adapt support where needed.

Final Thoughts

The beginning of a new school year is all about helping our children feel safe, settled, and ready to learn. For children with SEND, that means the right reasonable adjustments, open communication, and a supportive team around them.

As parents, it’s easy to feel worked up in these early weeks about what may or may not be happening in school. My advice is to stay calm, document everything, and keep communication positive. This really can make all the difference.

If you’re unsure whether your child is getting the support they’re entitled to, or if you’d like help preparing for conversations with school, SEND Meadow is here to guide you. You don’t have to face this alone.

Book a free 15 minute phone call with me to discuss how I can help you.