Beyond the diagnosis: Navigating the SEND journey with families

Receiving a SEND diagnosis is a transformative moment for families. This podcast episode and article explore how practitioners bridge the gap between statutory requirements and empathetic support, empowering parents as "experts" on their children. We examine the graduated approach, the SENDCo's pivotal role in transitions, and the necessity of inclusive, multi-agency collaboration.

Read the article here:

https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/beyond-the-diagnosis-navigating-the-send-journey-with-families/

This episode is sponsored by Shaping Lives

Shaping Lives is a national, Ofsted 'Good' training provider, partnering with employers across England to build stronger, more resilient workforces. With specialist expertise in the Early Years sector, we deliver high-quality apprenticeship and commercial training that supports staff development, performance, and retention.

Our approach has earned us the trust of over 1,000 businesses and supported more than 2,500 learners annually. Our 4.8 Trustpilot rating reflects our commitment to quality and results. Our tailored programmes are built around your business needs, with 80% of employer partners reporting improved staff retention.

Every learner benefits from a dedicated Personal Tutor with sector experience, one-to-one support, and structured learning aligned to industry standards. 93% of learners report better work performance after completing our training, driving real value for your nursery. Partner with us to develop confident, skilled teams ready for the future.

To find out more visit: shapinglives.co.uk

Our 2027 conference info & tickets:

https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/early-years-conference-2027/

Listen to more:

If you enjoyed this episode, you might also like:

· Integrating evidence-based practice into the early years curriculum: How ABA principles align with the EYFS, with Mikaela Green: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/integrating-evidence-based-practice-into-the-early-years-curriculum-how-aba-principles-align-with-the-eyfs/

· What is sound-based emotional regulation? With Nicola Maria Rose: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/what-is-sound-based-emotional-regulation/

Get in touch and share your voice:

Do you have thoughts, questions or feedback? Get in touch here! – https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/contact/

Episode break down:

00:00 –Welcome to the podcast and introduction to Andy Hogg
03:40 – Andy's work and bridging the gap between policy and practice
04:41 – Academic and life skills curricula
05:23 – Understanding the graduated approach
05:55 – Assess: establishing a baseline and gathering evidence
06:13 – Plan: setting targets and involving families and children
07:17 – Do: putting provision in place and gathering evidence
07:48 – Review: adapting targets and monitoring progress
09:09 – Why support needs to continually evolve with the child
10:10 – The SENCO as a 'transition architect'
11:25 – Supporting children through everyday transitions
11:58 – Visual timetables and first-and-next boards
12:42 – Key person support and communication strategies
13:16 – Universal approaches to communication and inclusion
13:51 – Using PECS and creating a total communication environment
14:56 – Recognising smaller steps of progress
15:35 – High-incidence and low-incidence needs
16:41 – Making high-incidence support part of universal provision
17:15 – Specialist provision for low-incidence needs
17:56 – Multi-agency working and the team around the child
18:46 – The setting as a hub for multi-agency support
20:30 – The SENCO's role in coordinating professionals
21:05 – Supporting parents through joined-up meetings
22:15 – Recognising the emotional impact on families
22:55 – Why supporting parents supports the child
23:08 – Final reflections: bridging policy and practice
23:25 – Closing thanks and further TVOEC resources

For more episodes and articles visit The Voice of Early Childhood website: https://www.thevoiceofearlychildhood.com