As home-based teachers and practitioners, all of the children we work with are referred to us by the Educational Psychology Service.

We believe the parents, as first educators, know most about their child. We work in partnership with parents to assess their child's abilities and to write and carry out an individual teaching programme aimed at developing their child's full potential. We use a step by step approach to learning based on play and having fun.

Teaching sessions usually take place in the home, but may sometimes take place at a day nursery or playgroup if it is more appropriate for the family. We advise parents on the range of toys and equipment that will help their child's development. We teach during school terms and families are usually offered weekly visits.

If parents or carers are worried about their child's development they will probably speak to a Health Visitor or Doctor. He/she may contact specialist health professionals who will contact the Educational Psychology Service if it is thought that the child may have special educational needs. Parents may contact the Educational Psychology Service directly.

When a referral is received from the Educational Psychology Service, a teacher will visit the family to explain the Team's work more fully and discuss how best to provide for their child's needs.

The EarlyBird programme is available to all parents of pre-school children in Leicestershire who receive a diagnosis of autism. The programme, devised by the National Autistic Society, aims to provide parents with an understanding of autism and an opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to communicate effectively, manage behaviour and help their child to make progress.

As Area SENCOs, the team provides and supports practical advice to validated early years settings. This includes: