The Four-Tier System: When Support Comes Too Late
Sarah Jane McGarry Sarah Jane McGarry

The Four-Tier System: When Support Comes Too Late

The four-tier system is being discussed as a form of early intervention in SEND support. But many children don’t struggle early. Some cope through primary school and only begin to struggle later, often in secondary school when demands increase sharply. A system that requires children to move slowly through tiers risks delaying help until real damage has already been done. This blog explores why waiting for repeated failure is not early intervention — and why parents need to understand what may be coming.

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Understanding Social Communication and Its Challenges for Those Who Are Autistic

Understanding Social Communication and Its Challenges for Those Who Are Autistic

Social communication is about far more than spoken words. For autistic people, navigating non-verbal cues, conversation rules, and social expectations can be exhausting — and often misunderstood. This article explores why social interaction can be so challenging and how we can offer better support.

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Understanding Flexible Thinking: Why Autistic and ADHD Young People Can Become Rigid — and Vulnerable to Outside Influence

Understanding Flexible Thinking: Why Autistic and ADHD Young People Can Become Rigid — and Vulnerable to Outside Influence

Autistic and ADHD young people are often described as “rigid,” but this isn’t stubbornness — it’s a difference in flexible thinking. This blog explains why they may cling tightly to certain beliefs, become influenced by outside voices, and struggle to shift when something isn’t working. A supportive guide for families who want to understand and help their young person stay safe and informed.

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