1 April 2025

At Scallywags, we believe every child deserves to feel seen, celebrated, and supported—exactly as they are. As the nursery’s SENDCo, I’m incredibly proud to champion our April policy of the month: Equality, Inclusion and SEND, especially during Autism Awareness Month.

This is more than just a policy for us—it’s a promise.

A promise to every child that they will be welcomed, understood, and nurtured, whatever their needs or background may be. It’s also a promise to our families that we will work alongside you—listening, learning, and adapting to ensure your child’s early years journey is filled with meaningful, joyful experiences.

💬𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀

In the early years, every moment counts. These are the foundations of confidence, curiosity, and connection. For children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) this foundation must be built with thoughtfulness, patience, and creativity.

Inclusion isn’t just about allowing space—it’s about creating space that belongs to every child. That means:

• Providing sensory-friendly, visually rich environments
• Using tools like Makaton to support communication
• Adapting routines so that children feel safe and secure
• Celebrating neurodiversity as a strength, not a difference to “fix”

As a setting, we are committed to embedding inclusive practices into everything we do—from the stories we read to the way we plan activities and engage with families. We know representation matters. The toys on our shelves, the languages we hear, the food we cook together, and the way we talk about emotions—it all shapes how our children see themselves and others.

🤝𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿: 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘀 & 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘀

Being a SENDCo means I’m not just supporting the children—I’m here to support you, the parents, carers, and professionals who care deeply about giving children the best start.

Navigating the SEND system can feel overwhelming, and I want you to know you’re not alone. Whether it’s reviewing your child’s Individual Educational Plan (IEP), making a referral to external services, or just having a cup of tea and a chat—I’m here.

And I’m proud to work alongside our Equality Named Co-ordinator, Becky McGowan, who plays a key role in ensuring our entire setting reflects equity, inclusion, and respect at every level.

🌟𝗠𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲

Autism Awareness Month reminds us to not only raise awareness but also to act. Inclusion is not a trend or a theme—it’s a mindset and a daily practice.

This month, we’re reflecting on our resources, our language, our environment, and our planning to ensure that every child can thrive. We’re also spotlighting the importance of:

• Understanding sensory processing differences
• Promoting visual supports for transitions and routines
• Encouraging peer understanding and friendship-building
• Supporting staff with training and reflective practice

💖𝗔 𝗠𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀

To the parents of children with SEND—you are your child’s fiercest advocate, and we see you. We honour your insights, your strength, and the love you pour into every day.

We’re here to work with you, not around you. Your child’s voice matters. Your voice matters.

Let’s continue building a setting where inclusion is lived, not just written.

Inclusion Blog written by Demi Eastment – Scallywags Nursery SENDCo