Inclusive childcare services in Southampton
Southampton Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership supports the development of a co-ordinated, high quality and inclusive early education and childcare service for Southampton which will benefit children, parents, employers and providers alike. The Partnership is helping to develop new places for childcare all over the City where it is needed. All the services registered with the Children's Information Service welcome all children and will work hard to meet any special or additional needs your child may have. Click here for up to date details of childcare providers in your area, or phone Southampton Children's Information Service free on 0800 169 8833
Types of Childcare
Pre-schools and Nurseries
All settings that provide early years education will have a Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator. This person works with the child's parents and a range of other professionals to ensure the child's needs are met, so that he or she can join in and develop through a range of play and learning opportunities. These settings are eligible for an Inclusion Grant from the Opening Doors Service. This supports children with special needs and is paid to the setting. Some children experience significant difficulties in learning and may need additional support. It is important that these difficulties are identifed early so appropriate services can be provided. The Southampton Local Education Authority has the responsiiblity to assess childrens' needs and, working with parents, identify how and where they can be met. Across the city there are several designated "Inclusive Early Years Centres". The Inclusive Early Years Centres receive additional funding from the Local Education Authority so that they can provide the additional support needed. Some of the Special Schools in Southampton also have nursery provision. Childminders
May be a good choice for disabled children who need a local home based environment. They may collect your child from school, and offer flexible hours to fit in with you. Many childminders have particular interests and skills in caring for disabled children. They may be willing to care for older children or teenagers. Where your child requires a higher level of support, childminders may be eligible for an Opening Doors Inclusive Grant to contribute financially to a reduction in ratios or to purchase specialist equipment. Out of School Clubs
Can be large and busy or cater for a smaller number of children. Clubs help children to mix with other children who live locally. All registered out of school settings will have policies for meeting special needs, equal opportunities and behaviour management. Parents should discuss the needs of their child with the setting. Out of School Clubs are eligible for support from the Opening Doors Service to support disabled children who want to go to clubs in Southampton.
Holiday Playschemes
Are provided in some areas in the school holidays. They are a good choice to help children socialise and to provide a break for parents. Many will not run full time, so may not be suitable for working parents. Check opening times directly with the schemes. All registered holiday playschemes will have policies for meeting special needs, equal opportunities and behaviour management. Parents should discuss the needs of their child with the setting. Holiday Playschemes are also eligible for support through the Opening Doors Service.
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