Information for Parents and Carers

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference that affects how a person experiences and interacts with the world.

Every autistic child is different. Some children may need significant support, while others may need support in particular situations.

At Madginford Primary School, we focus on the individual child and their unique needs.

What might autism look like?

Autistic children may experience differences in:

• Social communication and interaction
• Understanding social situations
• Communication
• Flexibility and adapting to change
• Sensory processing
• Interests and patterns of behaviour

A child may also have particular strengths, such as strong interests, attention to detail, excellent memory, creativity or a deep knowledge of subjects they enjoy.

Supporting children at home

Prepare for change

Give your child advance notice of changes where possible. Visual timetables or simple explanations can help.

Use clear communication

Make expectations clear and avoid giving too much information at once.

Understand sensory needs

Notice what environments, sounds, smells, textures or lights your child finds difficult and consider ways to reduce unnecessary sensory demands.

Build on interests

Your child's interests can be a valuable way to connect, communicate and support learning.

Allow time to regulate

If your child becomes overwhelmed, they may need time and space to calm and regulate before they are ready to talk or learn.

Autism and school

We work closely with families to understand what helps each child feel safe, included and ready to learn.

Support may include:

• Visual information
• Predictable routines
• Preparation for change
• Clear communication
• Sensory strategies
• Support with social communication
• Reasonable adjustments

If you are concerned

If you have concerns about your child's development or think they may be autistic, please speak to your child's class teacher or Mrs Farrell, our SENCo.

A diagnosis is not required for us to consider how we can support a child's individual needs in school.

SENCo: Mrs Farrell
Email: office@mps.kent.sch.uk

Remember

There is no single way that autism looks. Understanding the individual child is at the heart of effective support.