Lisa Spann, Managing Director at Fledglings, reveals key ways parents can help children with SEND feel supported and regulated as routines shift during the spring months.
As the days grow longer and the seasons begin to change, spring can bring fresh challenges for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
From lighter evenings and altered school timetables to sensory triggers such as brighter light and increased outdoor noise, this transitional period can feel unsettling for many families.
Here, Lisa Spann, Managing Director at Fledglings, shares her expert advice on how parents can support children with SEND during springtime changes.
7 Tips For Supporting Children With SEND During Springtime Changes
Lisa Spann, Managing Director at Fledglings, said:
“Seasonal changes can feel subtle to adults, but for children with SEND, even small shifts in routine, light, or environment can feel significant. Spring is often seen as a positive and refreshing time of year, yet it can also introduce uncertainty and sensory overwhelm. Thankfully, there are practical steps families can take to make the transition smoother and more reassuring.”
1. Prepare for routine changes in advance
“Lighter evenings, different school schedules, and upcoming holidays can all disrupt established routines. Children with SEND often rely heavily on predictability to feel secure. Using visual timetables, countdown calendars, or simple daily reminders can help them understand what is changing and when. Preparing them in advance reduces anxiety and gives them a greater sense of control over their day.”
2. Support sensory sensitivities linked to spring
“Spring can introduce a range of sensory challenges, from brighter sunlight and stronger smells to pollen and increased outdoor noise. Parents can support children by making small but meaningful adjustments, such as providing sunglasses or hats, planning regular sensory breaks, or identifying quiet spaces where they can retreat if needed. Being proactive about sensory triggers can help children feel more regulated and comfortable.”
3. Ease transitions between indoor and outdoor activities
“As the weather improves, children may spend more time outside, which can feel exciting but also overwhelming. Clear communication about transitions, offering limited choices and allowing children to bring familiar comfort items outdoors can make moving between environments feel less abrupt. Gentle preparation before switching activities helps children adjust at their own pace.”
4. Maintain consistent boundaries and expectations
“Changes in daylight and energy levels can sometimes affect behaviour. While the season may feel different, keeping boundaries and expectations consistent provides stability. Clear, predictable responses from adults help children feel safe and reassured, even when their surroundings are shifting.”
5. Support emotional regulation during periods of change
“Seasonal transitions can heighten anxiety or emotional dysregulation. Encouraging calming strategies such as movement breaks, quiet time, sensory activities or talking about feelings in a way that suits the child’s communication style can make a real difference. Validating their emotions and offering steady support helps them feel understood.”
6. Communicate changes clearly with everyone involved
“Times of change can feel unsettled for children with SEND, which is why keeping communication open and consistent is so important. When parents, carers and educators share updates about upcoming events, potential challenges or strategies that are working well, children are far more likely to feel supported and understood. Working together creates a steady, reassuring network around the child, helping them navigate transitions with more confidence.”
7. Prioritise rest and downtime
“With longer days and increased activity, it can be tempting to fill schedules with outings and events. However, children with SEND often benefit from intentional downtime. Building in quiet periods to recharge helps prevent overwhelm and supports overall wellbeing during busier seasons.”
8. Celebrate small wins
“Periods of change can be challenging, so it’s important to recognise and celebrate small achievements. Whether it’s successfully managing a new routine or coping well with a sensory trigger, acknowledging progress builds confidence and resilience for future transitions.”
“Spring can be a time of growth and renewal, but it’s perfectly normal for children with SEND to need additional reassurance as the season shifts. With thoughtful preparation, open communication and a flexible approach, families can help make this time of year feel manageable and positive.”
Discover more advice and practical resources for supporting children with SEND throughout the year at https://www.fledglings.org.uk/.
