Childminders and nurseries

Don't forget that alongside special provisions, the bog-standard route that parents use for escaping for a few hours (sometimes referred to as 'working') is also available to you: nurseries and childminders.

Mumsnet Talk special needs forums

The downside is that you will probably have to fund this yourself.

Nurseries are usually very welcoming of children with special needs, and should have a relationship with a Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) who can help to plan your child's care.

"When my daughter was 18 months old the local nursery had her two afternoons a week. It was really hard settling her at first but eventually (after a few months) she began to settle and enjoy it. I always found with both of my children (SN and not special needs) that they were less clinging after attending nursery on a (very) part-time basis." PinkKerPlink

It may be more difficult to find a childminder who will be able to look after your child, but don't rule this out as a possibility. "Some childminders have experience of special needs and would be able to help (even if for just a few hours)," advises one Mumsnetter, herself an experienced childminder.

"It is worth contacting your local Children's Information Network or equivalent run by your local council and asking about childminders. Where I live they have a register of childminders who were interested in taking on children with SN. They didn't necessarily have any experience, just an open mind." heartinthecountry

Mumsnet Talk - Special needs