Dream Childcare SEND Information Report
 Updated February 2026

This report outlines how Dream Childcare identifies and supports children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). We are committed to inclusive practice and ensuring every child reaches their full potential in a warm, nurturing home-from-home environment.

1. How does the setting identify if children need extra help, and what should I do if I think my child may have special educational needs?

All children are observed daily in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. We record observations, complete regular 'next steps' planning, conduct the statutory two-year-old progress check, and track development through individual learning journals.

We maintain open communication with parents through daily conversations at drop-off/collection, our online daily diary on Tapestry, and formal parents' evenings twice a year. When your child starts, we gather information about their routines, likes/dislikes, and carry out initial assessments across the EYFS areas of learning.

If you have concerns about your child's development or suspect they may have special educational needs, please speak to us at any time—we operate an open-door policy. We will discuss your observations alongside ours and agree next steps together.

2. How will the setting staff support my child?

We plan daily activities based on each child's individual needs and interests, consulting children directly about what they enjoy. Weekly themes introduce new learning opportunities, and we interact consistently while regularly evaluating and adapting our provision to ensure it meets everyone's needs.

3. How will the curriculum be matched to my child’s individual needs?

We follow the EYFS as our guide, differentiating activities by age, ability, and interests to encourage both group and one-to-one participation. We incorporate your child's preferences to make learning engaging and meaningful. Educational outings to varied environments (such as beaches, forests, parks, and farms) help spark curiosity and support holistic development.

4. How will both you and I know how my child is doing, and how will you help me to support my child’s learning?

You will receive daily updates through face-to-face discussions at drop-off/collection and via our Tapestry app, where you can view photos, observations, and activities throughout the day.

Our open-door policy means you can contact us by phone or email anytime with questions.

We hold parents' evenings twice a year to review progress, celebrate achievements, and discuss any areas for support.

We encourage home learning by lending resources (for 2–3 days at a time), accessing local toy libraries, and sharing ideas. If progress is slower than expected, we will discuss this with you first and, with your agreement, seek advice from external professionals such as those from local children and family centres.

5. What support will there be for my child’s overall well-being?

Our team has over 106 years of combined childcare experience, with most holding NVQ Level 3 qualifications and all trained in paediatric first aid. We follow robust, annually reviewed policies on administering medicine, safeguarding, and behaviour management (full policies available on request).

Your child's safety and well-being are our top priority. We ensure secure environments indoors and outdoors, including matching sunhats, Hi vis jackets branded with Dream Childcare (worn on outings), , and full first-aid kits.

6. What specialist services and expertise are available at or accessed by the setting?

We have extensive experience working with a range of professionals, including health visitors, speech and language therapists, and hearing impairment teams. If a new need arises, we will contact our local SEND Coordinator (SENCO) or other relevant specialists to access appropriate support and advice.

7. What training have the staff supporting children with SEND had or are undertaking?

In addition to attending local SENCO network meetings, our team is committed to ongoing professional development.

Over half the team have attended courses  including Makaton, sensory play, equality and diversity, and supporting children with English as an additional language.

8. How will my child be included in activities outside the setting (including educational outings)?

As a home-based nursery, we carefully plan all outings with individual needs in mind. We consult parents/carers in advance to gain consent and discuss any requirements.

Where possible, we adapt equipment and choose accessible venues with suitable facilities (e.g., toilets).

We always carry drinks, first-aid kits, sun cream, and emergency contacts to ensure full inclusion and safety.

9. How accessible is the setting environment?

We operate from a two-bedroom cottage and a wooden lodge on our property grounds, each with its own kitchen, toilet, heating, and hot water. The setting is located within 3 miles of other nurseries, a leisure centre, and a primary school, with ample driveway parking.

We have a large, secluded garden. For children using a temporary wheelchair, we can provide a portable ramp to ensure access.

10. How will the setting prepare and support my child to join the setting and to transfer to a new setting, school, or the next stage of education?

We work closely with you to settle your child using our flexible settling-in policy, which includes two free 2-hour sessions before their official start date. This helps them become familiar with us, other children, and the environment.

We are happy to adapt the process to whatever suits your child best, as you know them best.

When moving on to another setting or school, we pass on their learning journal so new staff can see their progress and interests. We also prepare children by discussing the changes, reading relevant stories, and talking about school routines.

11. How are the setting’s resources allocated and matched to children’s special educational needs?

We offer government-funded early education places for eligible children aged 9m plus .For children with SEND, we prepare equipment and resources in advance, in discussion with you and any involved early years specialists.

12. How is the decision made about what type and how much support my child will receive?

Decisions are made collaboratively with parents/carers, based on our ongoing observations, assessments, and your input. We identify any areas needing extra support and discuss options, including potential additional funding for SEND if appropriate.

13. How are parents involved in the setting? How can I be involved?

We value your input highly. We distribute questionnaires twice a year for feedback on our service, and our open-door policy allows discussions anytime—by phone, email, or in person.

14. Who can I contact for further information?

Please contact us directly for face-to-face or phone discussions about your child's progress, development, or any concerns—we are always available at a time convenient for you.

For additional advice, you can reach out to:

• The local Family Information Service
• Children and Family Centres
• Your Health Visitor team

We look forward to working in partnership with you to support your child's happy and successful early years journey.