What this section is about
is not an education benefit, but school evidence can show your child's daily needs. Include support, , reduced timetable, , masking, exclusions, sensory support, learning needs and emotional impact.
Avoid saying
- They are fine in school.
- They behave at school but not home.
- School says there are no issues.
Better ways to explain
- My child may mask in school and release distress at home.
- School attendance is only possible with support and significant emotional cost.
- My child requires adjustments, reassurance and support to access education.
Example wording
My child's school presentation does not show the full level of need. They may mask difficulties during the day and become distressed, dysregulated or exhausted at home. Education is only possible with support, preparation and recovery time.
Evidence that helps
- support plan
- Attendance record
- Reduced timetable letters
- evidence
- School emails
- Pastoral logs
- Exclusion/suspension records
Common mistakes
- Ignoring school because is not school-based
- Forgetting masking
- Forgetting after-school restraint collapse
- Forgetting reduced timetable
- Forgetting emotional cost
Part of the Bright Steps Ultimate Guide. For the full interactive walkthrough with printable templates, sign in and visit the DLA Guide.