Early Years
We know the early years can feel overwhelming. Information is often scattered, full of jargon, and hard to piece together at a time when you already have so much to manage.
Many parents describe this as a “double trauma”: first, facing the challenges of your child’s needs, and then realising the systems meant to support you are confusing and difficult to access.
That’s why we’ve created these guides - written by parents, for parents. They bring key information together in one place, in clear and simple language, so you can spend less time navigating and more time focusing on what really matters. And remember, you’re not on your own - there’s always a real person behind this website who’s happy to help.
If you’re feeling stuck, just email us at info@oxfsn.org.uk and we’ll get back to you.
Early Years Guides
Financial Help & Entitlements
Raising a child with additional needs can bring extra costs and challenges, and knowing what financial support is available isn’t always straightforward.
In this section, we’ll walk you through the financial help and entitlements you may be able to claim, from benefits and grants to support with day-to-day costs.
Education Support & EHCP
EHCPs in Oxfordshire. Comprehensive Guide.
Early Year’s Nursery Funding & Entitlements.
Finding the Right Setting.
Using AI to understand Education and EHCPs.
Childcare, Respite, & Returning to Work
In this section, we’ll look at the different types of childcare available.
Taking a break is so important for your own wellbeing, and that of your family. Respite care is there to give you that time, either a few hours of support at home, or a short stay for you child.
Flexible working and parental rights to financial support.
Healthcare
Getting the right healthcare for your child can sometimes feel complicated, but there is support available to guide you through.
In this section, you’ll find clear information about the services and professionals who may be involved in your child’s care.
Our aim is to make the healthcare journey easier to understand, so you know what steps to take and how to get the right support for your child.
Just For Fun & Oxfordshire SEND Groups/Days
When your child has additionalneeds it’s easy for the focus to be on appointments, forms, and routines.
This section is all about fun! Here you’ll find ideas in Oxfordshire from sensory-friendly play sessions and local family events to outdoor adventures.
We’ll also share simple at-home activities, from crafts to music to messy play.
Charity Equipment, Toy, and Holiday Funding
Raising a child with additional-needs often means extra costs for the things that make a real difference, whether it’s specialist equipment, adapted toys, or even the chance to take a much-needed family break.
There are charities and organisations that can help by providing grants and funding. In this section, we’ll guide you through the different types of support available and how to apply.
Emotional & Parental Support
We know that caring for a young child be exhausting and, at times, lonely. Yet so many parents feel the same way.
This section contains information on parent groups, counselling services, and practical ways to look after your own wellbeing.
New Parent Zone
Information for new parents.
Siblings
When you’re caring for a child with additional needs, supporting siblings is just as important, and even small steps can help them feel included, valued, and secure.
In this section, we share ideas for helping siblings understand their brother's or sister’s needs and details of local Oxfordshire groups where they can meet others in a similar situation.
Bereavement
The loss of a child is one of the most intense and painful experience a parent can face. It can leave you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or unsure how to go on.
Everyone grieves differently, and there is no right or wrong path. But support can help you navigate the journey.
Here, you’ll find local and national available resources.
OxFSN Social Media Channels
Early Years Podcast
About The Podcast
Two Mums parenting and caring for young SEND and medically complex children Imogen and Naz talk honestly about raising young disabled and medically complex children in the early years.
Come along with us as we learn and bumble our way through it. From emotions, trauma and identity, to caring for our children, to navigating benefits, health and education systems.
With guest professionals along the way, this is the podcast you can switch on when you need a voice that understands. We made the podcasts we wish we had.
Events Calendar
Opportunities to participate in our online and in-person training, workshops and information sharing intiatives.