Starting school can feel exciting and sometimes overwhelming for both children and families. Below are some trusted websites and organisations that many parents find helpful for advice, support and practical ideas at home.

Every child develops differently and at their own pace. If you have any worries or questions, please speak to your child’s class teacher — we are here to help and support you:

 

Understanding Autism & ADHD

· National Autistic Society

Advice about autism, communication, routines, sensory needs and school support.

www.autism.org.uk

 

· ADHD Foundation

Helpful guidance for supporting attention, emotional regulation and behaviour.

www.adhdfoundation.org.uk

 

· Contact

Support for families of children with additional needs and disabilities.

www.contact.org.uk

 

Support for Sensory Needs

· Sensory Integration Education

Information about sensory processing and sensory regulation.

www.sensoryintegrationeducation.com

 

· Sensory OT Resource Library

Free sensory play activities, calming ideas and practical strategies for home.

sensoryot.northumbria.nhs.uk/resources

 

· OT Support Hub

Advice around sensory needs, emotional regulation and everyday routines.

www.otsupporthub.co.uk

 

Toileting & Routines

· OT Support Hub

Advice around sensory needs, emotional regulation and everyday routines.

www.otsupporthub.co.uk

 

· ERIC – Children’s Bowel & Bladder Charity

Trusted support for toilet training, constipation and toileting difficulties.

www.eric.org.uk

 

· NHS Potty Training Advice

Simple NHS guidance for families beginning toilet training.

www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/babys-development/potty-training-and-bedwetting/how-to-potty-train

 

· The Sleep Charity

Support with bedtime routines and sleep difficulties.

www.thesleepcharity.org.uk

 

Food & Mealtimes

· OT Support Hub

Advice around sensory needs, emotional regulation and everyday routines.

www.otsupporthub.co.uk

 

· SOS Approach to Feeding

Helpful strategies for children who are anxious about trying new foods.

www.sosapproachtofeeding.com

 

· BBC Tiny Happy People

Videos and ideas to support routines, communication and development.

www.bbc.co.uk/tiny-happy-people

 

Sensory Play Ideas

· OT Support Hub

Advice around sensory needs, emotional regulation and everyday routines.

www.otsupporthub.co.uk

 

· The Imagination Tree

Creative sensory play, messy play and fine motor ideas.

www.theimaginationtree.com

 

· Busy Toddler

Simple, low-cost activities for young children.

www.busytoddler.com

 

· Twinkl Parents

Activities, visual supports and learning ideas for home.

www.twinkl.co.uk/parents

 

Local Support

· North Northamptonshire SEND Local Offer

Information about local SEND services and support available to families.

www.northnorthants.gov.uk/send-local-offer

 

· West Northamptonshire SEND Support Services

Advice, guidance and support services for children with additional needs.

www.westnorthants.gov.uk/send-support-services

 

IASS Northamptonshire

Independent advice and support for parents and carers.

www.iassnorthants.co.uk