Early signs of SEND in toddlers
If you are quietly comparing your toddler to others and wondering whether something is different, trusting that gut feeling is often the first step.
What is SEND?
SEND stands for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. It is a broad umbrella covering everything from speech and language delays to autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and physical or sensory needs.
Every child develops at their own pace, so this is not about panicking over one missed milestone. It is about noticing patterns over time.
Possible early signs worth mentioning
Having one or two of these signs does not mean your child has SEND. Many are part of the huge spectrum of normal. But if a pattern is building, or your instinct keeps nudging you, do not wait it out.
- Not responding to their name by 12 months
- Limited or no babbling by 12 months, or no words by 18 to 24 months
- Difficulty following simple instructions
- Limited eye contact or shared attention
- Not engaging in pretend play by age 2 to 3
- Strong distress over small changes to routine
- Repetitive movements or unusual sensory reactions
- Not walking by 18 months or difficulty with fine motor skills
What to do next
Speak to your health visitor or GP, who can refer you for a developmental assessment. Early identification can make a difference - not because something is wrong, but because the right support, early, helps children thrive on their own terms.
You know your child better than any checklist ever could. Trust that.