Part time in Reception

[MountainBunny]

Has anyone got any experience of part-time schooling for Reception?

My DC is autistic and is due to be discussed this term by EYPARM to decide if a special school is needed (which I’m pretty certain I don’t want) or have a 1:1 in school. Or something else. They want my views on the matter but I don’t know what I think.

My DC is almost 4, so doesn’t legally have to be in school full time until Easter 2020. At the moment, I’m fairly positive I don’t want full-time schooling in September but has anyone done the same?

Is it better to do just mornings or 2 days, or something else? They're at the school’s nursery 2 days a week at the moment so could probably match that.

You mean Easter 2021! My son did part time when he started. An hour first few days; until first break for a few more days; until beginning of lunch for a few more weeks; stayed for lunch for a few more weeks; until afternoon break for another few weeks then full time. It was fine.

The school preferred he did mornings as that is when the school routine was most evident. I.e. register; some structured learning etc with the afternoon being more stories and free play.

Speaking as a 1:1 for mostly ASD children for the last few years, I would recommend part time into reception for at least one term I.e until Christmas. And I would suggest 5 mornings slowly building up to lunch time and then lunch time play and then maybe a short time into the afternoon.
This gives everyone a chance to give your child 1:1 support and settle in and discuss strategies. It allows your child not to become overwhelmed and tired and makes it easier for everyone involved (mostly the child!) to settle and become used to the school routine. I wouldn't suggest a full day then missing a day as this won't help with routine (only tiredness) and your child would need to become used to structure.
It all depends on funding, how adaptable your child is and the strategies the school are going to put in place.
Hope that helps and I have made a bit of sense