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Early years (ages 0 - 5)

Some children will have a special educational need or disability identified from birth. Other children will start to show signs of an additional need as they develop during their early years. Whether you're feeling worried, or just keen to find out more about the type of help you can get, the Local Offer site is here to help you find the right support for your family.

Best Start Family Hubs and Family Centres (Family Support Service and Health Visitors)

Health Visitors support you during and after pregnancy, until your child is 5 years old. They provide information and advice, as well as acting as your advocate.  This can include supporting you through the process of diagnosis, discussing developmental concerns, sleep, diet and toilet training. They can also help you get support from other services and organisations you might need. Learn more about Health visitors in Hertfordshire.

There are a number of ways you can contact the Health Visiting Service:

  • You can call 0300 123 7572 every day, 9am – 5pm, to speak to a Health Visitor for any advice or information you need.
  • You can refer into our Family Centres and Best Start Family Hubs online
  • Text Chat Health - a texting service for parents of children aged 0 – 5 - 07480 635 164, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm.

The Family Support Service supports families, parents, and carers from before your baby is born right up until they reach the age of 11. They offer parenting support courses, breastfeeding support, first aid courses, and lots more.  You can find your nearest Family Centre or Best Start Family Hub here.

The Family Support SEND Champions support families who have children with SEND by providing information, advice, guidance and a listening ear. They link in with specialist services and partners to signpost families to the right support. There are also groups you can attend to meet other families and receive tailored support for you and your child. Find your nearest Family Centre or Best Start Family Hub here.

New to SEND?

If you're new to the world of SEND and are keen to find out more about the types of support you can get for your child, as well as helpful tips from other parents of children with SEND, you can visit our 'New to SEND' page

New to SEND

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Transitions

Starting school or nursery is a big milestone for any child. It can be an exciting time but you may also have concerns about how your child will cope. This page has advice and tips from professionals and other parents to help you through it.

Starting school or nursery

Developed in partnership with Health, Family Support and Herts Parent Carer Involvement, Hertfordshire's early years flowchart can tell you which professionals you may come into contact with if you are the parent of a child under 5 with an identified need or a new diagnosis. It can give you an overview of contact points, and links to more information. Download the Early Years SEND Offer flowchart here (this document is not accessible to screenreaders. If you would like an accessible version, please email localoffer@hertfordshire.gov.uk).

What kind of support can I get for my child under 5?

The experiences of families of young children with SEND will vary, and the type of support parents might need will depend on the child's needs and the individual circumstances of the families.  Some families will find the help and support they need by connecting with other parents of children with SEND, some will want to know about education options for their child, others might need help financially as their work is impacted.  You can find out more about different types of support you can access here: 

Support groups and networks

Connecting with other parents who have children with additional needs can be a lifeline for some parents and a valuable source of information

Activities and courses

Find inclusive events, playgroups and activities for you and your child, as well as parenting courses and workshops

Early Years SEND team

The specialist Early Years team help those children aged 0 - 5 with the most complex needs.

Money

Find out what financial support you may be able to apply for as well as funding that can be applied for by Early Years providers

Inclusion support

If you're struggling to find suitable early years childcare, contact our Early Years Service: 01992 555770 or earlyyears@hertfordshire.gov.uk.

Childcare and pre-schools

Find out more about the different childcare options you can consider for your child on the Herts directory

Free Early Education

If your child is 2 and has an EHCP you may be entitled to free childcare. You can find out more here.

 

Page was last updated on: 24/08/2026 13:32:37