# How do I support an autistic child in nursery or the early years (EYFS)?

> Practical strategies for EYFS settings, SEN support in the early years, and working with families and referrals.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/autism-nursery-eyfs
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** Early years settings in England follow the EYFS statutory framework and the SEND Code of Practice, which expects SEN support through a graduated approach. For autistic children, that means predictable routines with visual supports, following the child's interests in play, supporting all communication, calm spaces, and working closely with families, including on referrals if needed.

**Key takeaways**
- Follow the **EYFS** and the **SEND Code of Practice** graduated approach.
- Use **visual routines**, **follow interests** and value **all communication**.
- **No diagnosis** is needed for SEN support.
- Work **with families** and support **referrals** when needed.

## What does good support look like in the early years?

- **Predictable routines** with a visual timetable and now-and-next board
- **Warnings before changes**, with a timer or song
- **Following the child's interests** and joining their play
- **Supporting all communication**: gestures, pictures, signs and words
- **A calm space** and fewer transitions where possible

The EYFS statutory framework sets the standards all early years providers must meet.[1]

## How does SEN support work in the early years?

The SEND Code of Practice expects early years providers to identify needs early and use a graduated approach: assess, plan, do, review, with parents involved throughout.[2] The setting's SENCO coordinates this.

## How do I talk with families about concerns?

1. **Start with strengths**: what the child enjoys and does well.
2. **Share specific observations** from the setting.
3. **Explain what you're already doing** and what's helping.
4. **Suggest next steps**: the health visitor, GP, or a referral route.[3]

**Keep notes as you go.** Short, dated observations about play, communication and routines make referrals and reviews much easier.

## What helps during the day?

**Try:**
- A visual timetable at child height
- Now-and-next boards for transitions
- Offering a quiet spot during busy times
- Sharing pictures with families to use at home

**Skip:**
- Insisting on group time participation
- Insisting on eye contact
- Sudden changes without warning

**Attention Autism.** Many settings use Attention Autism sessions to build shared attention. See [What is Attention
  Autism?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/attention-autism)

Free printable: [Free printable: classroom pack](https://theautismkit.com/printables/classroom-pack.pdf)

## What can I try this week?

- [ ] Put up a visual timetable at child height
- [ ] Use a now-and-next board for one transition
- [ ] Start dated observations for one child

## Common questions

### Can a nursery refer a child for an autism assessment?

In many areas, nurseries can support or make a referral, often alongside the health visitor or GP. The NHS says families can ask their child's nursery about a referral.

### Does a child need a diagnosis for SEN support in nursery?

No. Settings should identify and support needs early, whether or not there's a diagnosis.

### Who coordinates SEN support in a nursery?

Group settings should have a SENCO, often called the early years SENCO. Childminders are encouraged to identify one too.

## Sources

1. GOV.UK: Early years foundation stage (EYFS) statutory framework. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/early-years-foundation-stage-framework--2
2. GOV.UK: SEND code of practice, 0 to 25 years (chapter 5, early years). https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/send-code-of-practice-0-to-25
3. NHS: How to get diagnosed with autism. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/autism/getting-diagnosed/how-to-get-diagnosed/

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.