Early years – targeted support

Early years education support

The early years foundation stage (EYFS) identifies seven areas of learning and development early years providers must teach
children in their settings. Early years providers should be making sure that they meet every child’s needs in these areas

If universal support is not enough to help your child make good progress, then more targeted support may be needed.

This may include early years settings using some of the strategies, methods and activities detailed in our Support in settings for key areas of SEND need page.

Health, social care and family support

Best Start Family Hubs

Children and Family Health Devon

Children and Family Health Devon (CFHD) is part of the NHS and provides care and treatment across physical and mental health for children, young people and their families in Devon. Their focus is on prevention and early help. Many of their support services can be accessed directly – no referral is required, so if you have any concerns about any area of your child’s development, they may be able to help.

See the self help tools and resources library on the CFHD website to help you get the right help and support. 

Speech and language drop-ins

If you have concerns about your child’s speech and language development, support is available from Speech and Language Therapists at Children and Family Health Devon (CFHD) – no referral is required.

Find out more on the CFHD website, including how you can book to attend a Speech and Language Therapy Service drop in session

Occupational Therapy (OT)

Occupational Therapists help children and young people to engage, participate and develop their independence in everyday activities (often called occupations) such as play, handwriting, getting dressed or going to the toilet.

Find out more about the OT support available from Children and Family Health Devon on their website.

CFHD also have an Occupational Therapy telephone advice line, where you can speak directly to a Children’s Occupational Therapist. The advice line is available Tuesdays 1.30 – 4.00 pm and Fridays 9.30 am – 12.00 pm on 03332 341123.

Re/Habilitation Officer for Visually Impaired Children (ROVIC) service

The ROVICs team are a county-wide service supporting children and young people (from birth to 18 years) who have vision, dual sensory (vision and hearing impairment) or Deafblind impairment living within the Devon Local Authority boundaries.

The team support children with skills for life. Their child-centred practice also includes skills training for families, parents, carers and professionals.