Navigating Wraparound Care for Kids with Additional Needs: A Parent’s Guide

Finding the right childcare is a challenge for any parent, but when your child has additional needs and attends a specialist school, the search for wraparound care can feel like an Olympic-level event. Whether you need before- or after-school care to fit around work, or you just want your child to have a safe and engaging space outside of school hours, getting the right setup can be tricky.

So, how do you find the right provider? How does government funding even work for wraparound care? And how do you make sure everything runs smoothly? Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Finding the Right Childcare Provider

Not all childcare providers are set up for children with additional needs, so the first step is doing some research. Here’s where to start:

Look for Specialist Providers – Some after-school clubs and childminders have experience with children who have additional needs. Your child’s specialist school may have a list of recommended providers, so ask them first.

Word of Mouth is Gold – Other parents are the best source of information! Join local SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) groups on Facebook or WhatsApp and ask who they use for wraparound care.

Have an Honest Conversation – Once you’ve found a provider, call them up and be upfront about your child’s needs. Ask about staff training, accessibility, and whether they’ve cared for children with similar needs before. A good provider will welcome the chat and work with you to ensure the right support is in place.

Step 2: Setting Up Wraparound Care with Government Funding

If your child is eligible for government funding (like the 30 Hours Free Childcare scheme or Tax-Free Childcare), you’ll want to make sure you can actually use it for wraparound care.

Check the Provider is Registered – Funding usually only applies to Ofsted-registered settings, which means not all after-school clubs or childminders will accept it. Ask upfront!

Sort Out the Admin – Some providers will need you to sign contracts or provide additional paperwork. If you’re using Tax-Free Childcare, you’ll need to pay through your government account to benefit from the top-up.

Coordinate with the School – If your child’s specialist school offers after-school care, they may already accept funding, making things easier. If not, they might be able to signpost you to an approved provider.

Step 3: Making Sure It Works for Your Child

Once you’ve got the right setup, it’s time to ensure your child feels comfortable and happy in their new routine.

Trial Sessions – If possible, ease your child into the new setting with a few short visits before they go full-time.

Care Plan in Place – Share important details about your child’s needs, routine, and any medical requirements. Some providers will create a care plan with you to make sure everything is covered.

Build a Relationship with Staff – Regular check-ins can help everyone stay on the same page. If something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to tweak the setup.

Finding the right wraparound care for a child with additional needs takes time, but once you get it right, it can make a huge difference for your whole family. A good setup means your child gets the support they need, and you can work (or just breathe!) knowing they’re safe and happy.