My child has physical difficulties, what can be done to help?

> A safe route around school should be identified prior to your child starting nursery/school; this should be level, i.e. a ramp or a stairway with rails, depending on your child’s needs.
> In order to be able to learn, it is important that children and young people are comfortable and well positioned.  Check the child is able to maintain an appropriate posture in the chairs at nursery/school.
> Some children may need seats with a little more support or height to access tables. Please speak to an OT for further advice if you are concerned.
> A change of position for a movement break is part of natural development – toddlers use all sorts of positions to do things. In order to stay awake / alert, a change of position is a preference. Children with additional needs will also require a change of position for postural reasons.
> Consider any snacks/ food provided in this environment is easy to carry and open.
> Consider fastenings on coats and shoes so that your child can be as independent as possible.
> Consider the toileting facilities.
> It may be helpful to identify somewhere that your child can sit and rest if they become tired.
> If your child has difficulty taking part in some activities, speak to the school about ways that these can be adapted. Specialist equipment may need to be considered for some children.
> Speak to school about the best place for your child to sit throughout the day e.g. at lunchtime this may be close to the serving hatch or entrance, so they do not have far to travel.
> Specialist cutlery can help a child be more independent with feeding themselves (caring cutlery, dycem etc).
> Carrying the lunch tray may be difficult, speak to school about who may be able to help.