SEND in the Early Years

Special Educational needs in early years encompass a wide range of developmental, behavioral, and physical challenges that can affect children from birth to age five. Early identification and intervention are crucial, as they can significantly improve a child's overall development and learning outcomes. Support may include tailored educational programs, therapy services, and family support, ensuring that children receive the necessary tools to thrive in a nurturing environment.

  • Funded Early Learning

    Two year olds qualify for 570 hours of free childcare per year if they receive Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or have an Education Health and Care (EHC) plan. Some two-year olds may also qualify if your family claims certain state benefits, for example Income Support, Tax Credits or Universal Credit. 

    All parents of three and four year olds are entitled to 570 hours of free childcare per year, this is usually taken as 15 hours each week.

    Early Years Inclusion Fund (EYIF)

    Every local authority must have an Early Years Inclusion Fund (EYIF) to support Early Years providers in meeting the needs of individual children with SEND. In Sheffield, the funding is for children with more complex needs.

    For more information on early years funding CLICK HERE

  • This is money given to childcare providers to help support 9 months to four year olds with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and/or disabilities in their setting. 

    Children must be in receipt of DLA and Early years providers are responsible for identifying eligible children so please do make sure they know if your child gets Disability Living Allowance.

    For more information on DLA CLICK HERE

  • Portage - The service offers practical advice and support to parents. It will offer an initial home visit to explore possible offers and help parents to understand their child’s additional needs.  Then fortnightly home visits will offer practical support for example, using special toys to encourage development through play.

    The service will also signpost to other support services as appropriate, and support families where children need joint further assessments – such as applying for an Education Health and Care (EHC) Plan.

    0-5 SEND -  Supporting families who have concerns about the special educational support needs of children aged 0-5+ years old.

    For more information and how to refer CLICK HERE

  • Early years settings can include childminders, day nurseries, pre-schools, holiday playschemes and childcare in your own home.

    At the age of three, most children start to attend some kind of early years setting.

    Early years settings must take steps to include and support children with SEND.