At Back to the Garden Childcare, we see ourselves as one big family. We value welcoming every child and their family into our setting and ensuring each child can thrive.
Recently, Radio Alty’s Late Late Lunch Show visited our Altrincham nursery, where host Rod Maxwell spoke with our Deputy Manager, Zoe Bowring, about how we support children with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND).
“SEND for us is any child who might need additional support or have barriers removed from their early learning and development,” says Zoe. “We work closely with parents and specialists, but we also start by looking at each child and thinking: do they need extra support? Is there a barrier we can remove?”
What SEND means at Back to the Garden
We provide inclusive, individualised care for children with a wide range of needs. Our experienced team draws on their early-years knowledge to identify speech, language, sensory or behavioural needs. Parents are key partners in supporting their child’s journey.
We operate an “open register” where some children are observed for potential additional needs, and others access specialist funding to provide one-to-one targeted support.
Tailored support for individual needs
Sensory sensitivity is one example. Some children may be overwhelmed by loud or unexpected noises or dislike certain textures of food. Others may “mouth” items (putting objects in their mouth as part of sensory exploration). We adapt our activities so they remain safe and accessible – for example, switching materials for those children – while still giving everyone the chance to take part.
Ear defenders are another tool. Some children prefer to wear them in the setting, which reduces overwhelming noise and allows them to interact as normal.
An inclusive culture among children
Our children naturally accept and support each other:
“They don’t notice any difference really. If a child had seventeen fingers, they’d still see them as just George with seventeen fingers. We’re all different – it would be a boring world if we were all the same.”
We gently explain differences as children get older so empathy grows alongside understanding.
Our environment: natural, tactile and adaptable
Our rooms are open-ended and filled with natural materials. Children spend time outdoors and engage in sensory play from baby age upwards. Activities are child-led and built around each child’s interests and safety.
Occasionally, despite everyone’s best efforts, a child may need a more specialist environment. In those cases, we work with parents and professionals to put the child first and ensure they have the best possible start.
Our team
Zoe has worked with children since her teens, trained as a teacher and is passionate about play-based learning:
“We want children to leave us confident, independent and happy – ready for their next stage of learning.”
She’s proud of the team’s expertise and care: “They love the children like they’re their own. Some children spend more time here than at home, so it’s vital we’re a setting where they feel safe and their true personalities can shine.”
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