Please or to access all these features

SN children

Here are some suggested organisations that offer expert advice on special needs.

Need some help and advice

5 replies

Outnumberedwoman · 19/10/2020 01:07

My DC2 is 4years old (5 in December). He is under assessment for ASD and ADHD. He is severely delayed in speech and struggles with concentration. He attends a special school and has a ECHP in place.

He doesnt sit still unless restained for want of a better word. He is getting too big for a high chair but wont sit on a normal chair to eat. He just runs about. He will eat happily when belted into a chair. So my first question is does anyone know of a chair or perhaps a harness that could be used to secure him to sit for meal times that is suitable for older children?

He is also growing too big for the buggy. We still need a buggy though because he has no awareness of danger at all and would run off frequently or he refuses to walk and just throws himself to the ground. I requested a referral to the OT through his school to request a buggy but was turned down as apparently in my trust referrals for buggies need to be made before the child turns 4! So we have missed the boat somewhat. I am not sure how this is supposed to work in practice- am I suppised to guess in advance if I will or will not need a buggy? Anyway, I digress. I was wondering if anyone knew of somewhere I could purchase a special needs buggy that won't break the bank.

There seems to be so much misinformation out there regarding how to go about acquiring equipment for children with additional needs so I really appreciate any help you could give.

OP posts:
livpotter · 19/10/2020 08:10

In terms of keeping him in his chair, rather than a restraint, do you think a weighted lap pad might work? Or a wobble cushion? Otherwise I think there are harnesses that you hang over the back of a normal chair.

We got our SEN buggy off eBay. They are still quite expensive though. I would ask your local charities if anyone is getting rid of one. Or you could apply for a Family Fund Grant.

Outnumberedwoman · 19/10/2020 23:55

Thank you so much. Do you know where you can get the harnesses? I had a quick search but it seemed to only have things that are only for babies. Not nearly 5 year olds with hulk like strength!

So many questions! I thank you for taking the time to reply .

OP posts:
livpotter · 20/10/2020 07:57

If you search for 'chair harness disabled/SEN' quite a few things come up. I've not used one so I can't recommend anything specific.

Waveysnail · 20/10/2020 09:49

maclarenmajorelite.co.uk/acatalog/why_not_buy.html
Wheelchair services at your local nhs may be able to help. Otherwise scour gumtree etc. Any school notice board.

Waveysnail · 20/10/2020 09:50

If you google special needs kids chair harness or something similar

New posts on this thread. Refresh page