31. March 2026

What to Do When You Start to Have Concerns About Your Child

A supportive guide for parents who are beginning to notice their child may need extra help, understanding or support.

When concerns first begin

For many parents, it doesn’t start with something obvious.

It’s often a quiet feeling — a small concern, a pattern you’ve noticed, or a sense that your child might be finding things harder than others their age.

You might not have the words for it yet.
You might not be sure if it’s “enough” to raise.

But if you’re noticing something, it matters.

And you’re right to pay attention to it.

Trust Your Instinct First

Parents are usually the first to recognise when their child may need additional support.

You see:

• The emotional ups and downs
• The exhaustion after school
• The effort it takes for your child to get through the day

Sometimes, these things aren’t visible in structured environments like school — but that doesn’t mean they aren’t happening.

Coping is not the same as thriving.

Common Early Signs to Be Aware Of

Every child is different, but some early indicators may include:

• Difficulty with change or transitions
• Emotional overwhelm, shutdowns, or meltdowns
• Challenges with friendships or social interaction
• Delays in learning, communication, or attention
• Anxiety, particularly linked to school

These signs don’t necessarily point to a diagnosis — but they do suggest your child may need support.

Why “Wait and See” Can Be Unhelpful

Many parents are advised to “wait and see.”

While this can feel reassuring in the moment, it often leads to:

• Delays in support
• Increased anxiety for your child
• Growing frustration at home and in school

Taking early steps doesn’t mean rushing into labels — it means understanding and supporting your child sooner rather than later.

What You Can Do Next (Simple, Clear Steps)

If you’re at the beginning of this journey, here are some practical steps you can take:

1. Start Keeping Notes

Write down:

• What you’re noticing
• When it happens
• Any patterns

This becomes really helpful when speaking to professionals.

2. Speak to Your Child’s School

Request a meeting with:

• Your child’s class teacher
• The SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)

Be clear about what you’re seeing — specific examples are important.

3. Ask About SEN Support

Your child does not need a diagnosis to receive support in school.

Schools should be able to put strategies in place based on identified needs.

4. Follow Up and Stay Involved

If nothing changes, it’s okay to:

• Ask for updates
• Request further support
• Seek external advice

You are allowed to advocate for your child.

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

The early stages can feel uncertain.

You may be questioning yourself, unsure what to say, or worried about being dismissed.

But getting the right guidance early can:

• Give you clarity
• Help you feel more confident
• Ensure your child gets the support they need sooner

How Can Le Roux SEND Group Help?

If you’re starting to have concerns and want clear, honest guidance on what to do next:

I offer a 60-minute SEND consultation where we will:

• Talk through what you’re seeing in detail
• Identify what may be underlying your child’s needs
• Map out clear, practical next steps with school or further support

This is a supportive, no-pressure space designed to give you clarity and confidence.

👉 Book your 60-minute consultation here
or
👉 Get in touch if you’d like to talk things through first