Special Educational Needs & Disabilities Support - SEND

At CatVana, we are passionate about teaching and committed to creating a supportive, inclusive environment for all students, especially those with SEN.

Our approach values each child’s unique qualities and tailors learning experiences to their individual needs, helping them feel valued, understood, and empowered to reach their fullest potential. Working closely with families, we make learning accessible and enjoyable, ensuring that children with diverse learning needs are set up for success.

Unsure if your child has learning difficulties?

If you're uncertain whether your child has learning difficulties, feel free to come and chat with us. We’re here to listen, guide, and show you how we’ve helped other families navigate similar experiences.

The five key development stages of children

These stages, spanning from infancy to adolescence, shape a child’s overall growth. Each stage involves physical, emotional, cognitive, and social changes that lay the groundwork for lifelong learning. By understanding each phase’s unique needs, parents and caregivers can better support the child’s development and well-being.

The four distinct stages of cognitive development

Cognitive development goes beyond general milestones—it’s about the way a child thinks and understands the world. From simple awareness to complex problem-solving, each stage marks an exciting shift in intellectual growth. Children move through these stages as they interact with others, explore their surroundings, and gain new experiences, which helps their thinking skills grow in leaps and bounds.

Early childhood care and development

Early childhood care makes a world of difference in a young child’s life. The love, support, and structure they receive during these years set the stage for everything to come. With the right foundation, they can go on to learn, grow, and build healthy relationships in the world around them.

Early langauge development

Language milestones can be a source of both joy and concern for parents. Knowing what to expect—and when not to worry—is key. Supporting children with simple language exercises and lots of interaction can work wonders, and we can share ways to encourage their growing vocabulary with everyday routines and play.

Tips for supporting child development at home

Creating a supportive environment at home can really make a difference. Play is essential, as is giving your child structure and clear boundaries. Finding ways to engage their curiosity, share your own experiences, and encourage positive behaviors can build resilience and confidence. Home can be an amazing place for growth!

Social skills development for autistic children

Autistic children benefit from intentional social skill-building exercises that address communication, emotional recognition, and adaptive behaviour. With targeted support, children can improve their social interactions and build confidence.

Cognitive development exercises for toddlers

Cognitive activities—such as sorting games, storytelling, and simple puzzles—stimulate toddlers’ mental growth and encourage skills like memory, attention, and problem-solving. Engaging toddlers with these exercises in a playful way helps lay a foundation for future intellectual growth.

Supporting child development with ADHD

Children with ADHD cope better with structured routines, clear expectations, and activities tailored to their unique strengths. By creating a supportive environment and using positive reinforcement, we help children with ADHD improve focus, self-control, and engagement in learning.

Transition planning for students with disabilities

Transitions can be big moments for students with special needs, and having a thoughtful plan can make all the difference. Whether moving to a new year, changing schools, or preparing for adult life, we work to ensure each student has the skills, support, and confidence they need for what’s next. Our goal is to make these changes as smooth and empowering as possible.

No one child is alike, and we treat them all as individuals; ensuring their SEN needs are met on a personal and family level.

You can read more here about how we like to provide a relaxed learning environment

If you are unsure, anxious or worried about your child, please do come and see us for a non-obligation discovery chat. We are always here to help, you can book a meeting through email.