Parents/carers are children and young people’s first and most important educators, advocates and nurturers. Strong family engagement is central to promoting children and young people's healthy development and wellbeing.
Local authorities and schools should enable parents to share their knowledge about their child and give them confidence that their views and contributions are valued and will be acted upon. (Paragraph 1.7 SEND COP)
It is important to include the views and wishes of the child and their family/carers from the start. The following may help you to do this:
- Early Years detailed ‘All About Me’ document A template which can be used to document the views and wishes of the child and their family: All about me for EY settings (docx format, 21Kb)
- Guidance on how to gather and include the views of a child: Listening to the views of the child leaflet
- Guidance on how to effectively work with parents and carers: Penn Green sharing concerns
- A template which can be used when recording a child’s views: Recording the views of the child proforma
At times children and families need a bit of extra support, when that happens, the early help strengths and needs form can be used to consider the family’s strengths and needs, and if there are any other factors impacting on the child’s development. An Early help guide for families is available to explain what Early Help is and who the Locality and Community Support Service are.
As part of the assessment process, it is important to include the views and wishes of the child or young person and their family/carers. Use ‘All About Me’.