What

Parents often worry about their child’s happiness and development, but knowing when to seek help can be challenging. Start by talking to your child—create a home environment where emotions are openly discussed. Books like How to Have Incredible Conversations With Your Child by Dr. Bettina Hohnen and What to Do When Your Brain Gets Stuck by Dawn Huebner offer helpful strategies.

If your child is struggling at school, their teacher can provide guidance and may refer you to the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCo). The SENDCo helps coordinate support, works with specialists, and ensures the right interventions are in place. Schools and local authorities also offer a ‘Local Offer’—a resource outlining available support.

For further help, your GP can assess your child’s needs and refer them to mental health services (CYPMHS) or counseling. If more structured support is required, you can apply for an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP), which identifies your child’s needs and sets out tailored support.

The key to helping your child thrive is open communication and working closely with teachers, SENDCo, and healthcare professionals. By taking these steps, you can ensure they receive the right support to feel happy and succeed.