Simple Strategies for Supporting SEND Children in a Mainstream School
Mainstream schools are inclusive environments where children with a variety of needs can learn and thrive alongside their peers. However, it’s important to recognize that children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) may need additional support to help them succeed. The good news is that simple strategies can make a big difference in supporting SEND children in a mainstream setting. Whether you’re a parent or a teacher, there are easy ways to make learning more accessible and enjoyable for children with SEND.
Many local authorities and councils have developed an Ordinarily Available Provision guide to support schools and parents in ensuring that needs are met within mainstream classrooms. This guide is often part of the local offer for your region and can be accessed through your local authority’s website.
Schools should use a continuous cycle of support called “Assess, Plan, Do, Review”, sometimes referred to as the graduated approach, as recommended by the SEN Code of Practice (2015). This approach ensures that the right support is in place at the right time to meet a child’s SEND needs. School staff, parents, and the child should regularly review this cycle to identify the most effective ways to secure good progress.
Following school assessments, your child or young person may have additional interventions. In most cases, this will be provided by the school from within the resources they receive to support children and young people with SEND.
Simple Strategies to Help SEND Children Thrive in Mainstream Classrooms
1. Use Visual Aids to Reinforce Learning
Visual aids are a powerful tool for helping children with SEND, particularly those with communication or learning difficulties. They can support a wide range of learning needs, from children with dyslexia to those on the autism spectrum. Visual aids can take many forms, such as:
2. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps
For children with SEND, tasks that seem simple to others can feel overwhelming. Breaking tasks down into smaller, more manageable steps makes it easier for children to follow instructions and stay on track. Here’s how you can implement this strategy:
3. Provide Frequent Breaks
Many children with SEND benefit from taking short, frequent breaks throughout the day. This can help them recharge, improve focus, and reduce feelings of overwhelm. Here are some ways to incorporate breaks into the school day:
4. Offer Flexible Seating Arrangements
Seating can have a huge impact on how well a child with SEND engages in learning. Some children may need to be seated in a particular spot to help them focus, while others might need to move around more often. Here’s how you can use seating arrangements to support children:
5. Use Clear and Consistent Routines
Children with SEND, especially those with autism or anxiety, often thrive when they know what to expect. A clear and predictable routine provides structure and reduces stress. Here’s how you can implement consistent routines in the classroom:
6. Provide Alternative Methods of Communication
For children with communication difficulties, finding ways to communicate outside of traditional speech can make a huge difference. This could include:
7. Foster a Positive and Inclusive Classroom Culture
Creating an inclusive classroom culture where every child feels valued is crucial. Here are some ways to build an environment where SEND children feel welcome and supported:
8. Maintain Open Communication with Parents
The partnership between home and school is essential in supporting SEND children. Regular communication with parents allows for a deeper understanding of the child’s needs and progress. This could include:
Supporting SEND children in a mainstream school doesn’t require drastic changes; small, simple adjustments can make a big difference in their educational experience. By using these strategies, teachers and parents can help create an environment where all children—regardless of their needs—have the opportunity to thrive.
Remember, every child is different, so be patient, flexible, and creative when finding strategies that work best for your child. With the right support, SEND children can enjoy a fulfilling and successful education in a mainstream setting. At any stage of your child’s education journey The SEN Expert is here to help. We have service that include: advocacy, diagnosis support, EHCP application and review and Tribunal support.
The SEN Expert offers a range of services for young people, families and schools. We offer support for parents to help navigate the complex world of Special Educational Needs. We will work with you closely to ensure the best for your child.
The SEN Expert was set up by Claire in 2021 following a successful career spanning 12 years in school improvement, special educational needs, safeguarding and the arts.
Claire has worked as a Deputy Headteacher, Assistant Headteacher, Consultant and SENCO in both state and private schools in inner city London, the Southwest, the Midlands and the USA.
Throughout her career, Claire has ensured solid outcomes for the young people she has worked with. Be that a set of good exam grades, a placement in specialist setting or getting a part time job.
Claire is a working mother, and understands the challenges parents face trying to ensure their children are happy and successful. We aim to provide young people with a creative route to the personal and professional adult life they deserve.
We offer support for families, children, and schools to navigate the complex world of SEN.
Check out our full list of services at our website www.thesenexpert.co.uk or follow us on Instagram @senexpert for daily advice on special educational needs.