SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) | EYFS

EYFS definition

SEND stands for special educational needs and disabilities. These are related but distinct terms: a child may have SEN, a disability, or both. In EYFS practice, the focus is on understanding individual needs and supporting learning, participation and wellbeing.

Are SEN and disability the same?

SEN involves a learning difficulty or disability that calls for special educational provision. Disability has a separate legal meaning, concerning a physical or mental impairment with a substantial, long-term adverse effect on everyday activities.

Neither term describes everything about a child’s strengths, interests or future learning.

What might support look like?

  • Adults adapt a story so a child can join through objects, pictures, signing or speech.
  • A nursery reviews access to play materials with a child’s family and relevant professionals.
  • A Reception team uses agreed strategies that help a child communicate or participate comfortably.

How are needs understood?

Practitioners bring together everyday observations, family knowledge and, where appropriate, specialist advice. Learning at a different pace does not automatically mean a child has SEN.

EYFS providers must have arrangements to support children with SEND. Educational support can respond to identified needs while understanding develops; identifying support needs is different from making a medical diagnosis.

Further Guidance | Related Documents

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  • SEND resources

    Explore visual communication, individual preferences and practical inclusion resources.

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