Children learn at different rates and show a great variety in the ways in which they learn best. Teachers take this into account when they organise their lessons. This is known as differentiating the curriculum.

However, some children still find it much harder to learn than others of the same age and may need extra help. This may be because they have difficulties with:

• Reading, writing, number work or understanding information
• Expressing themselves or understanding what is being said to them
• Organising themselves
• Understanding and following rules and routines
• Making friends or relating to adults
• A medical condition
• A sensory need such as a difficulty with seeing or hearing

These children are said to have Special Educational Needs. (This does not include children who are having trouble keeping up because their first language is not English).

The Department for Education publishes a Code of Practice giving guidance to schools and education authorities on how they should help children with Special Educational Needs.

If the early years setting receive nursery education grant they must have regard to the Code of Practice and be responsible for providing support. These needs should be met by using Early Years Action and the Early Years Action Plus.

A Department for Education booklet explaining Special Educational Needs for parents and carers can be downloaded free from the Teachernet website.