Understanding and Supporting SEND in the Early Years at Bright Blocks Preschool

Bright Blocks
Jan 6
1 min read

Supporting every child to thrive in our early learning environment

At Bright Blocks we believe every child is unique, capable and deserving of support that meets their individual needs. This page is a practical hub for staff to understand how we identify, support and review Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in our early years setting.

Whether you are new to SEND or experienced, this page is here to guide you in day-to-day practice.

What SEND Means in the Early Years

SEND in early years may include children who have differences or delays in areas such as:

Communication and language
Social interaction and emotional regulation
Sensory processing
Physical development or coordination
Attention, focus and engagement

Children do not need a diagnosis or an EHCP to receive support — early identification and responsive practice are key.

Our Early Years SEND Approach

We follow the Graduated Approach:

Assess → Plan → Do → Review

This means we:

Observe children carefully in everyday play and routines
Identify barriers to learning or participation
Plan supportive strategies within normal provision
Review regularly and adjust support as needed

Support is always child-centred, play-based, and built into the daily routine rather than added on.

Read

Read this document on the Types of SEND in the Early Years.

Watch

Small Talk Cards help develop children’s communication skills through fun, play-based activities. They can be used by parents and early years practitioners to support language and communication development in children aged 2 to 5 years.