What is GDD?

Global developmental delay (GDD) means your child is significantly behind in two or more areas of development - such as motor skills, speech and language, cognitive ability, social skills, or daily living skills. It's usually identified in children under 5, though the impacts continue throughout childhood. If your child has GDD, they are very likely to need support that goes beyond what a mainstream school can provide without additional resources.

Early is better

Research consistently shows that early intervention leads to better outcomes. You don't have to wait until your child starts school to request an EHCP - you can request one from birth. An EHCP for a pre-school child can secure early years specialist support, portage services, specialist nursery placement, and therapy services. The sooner your child gets the right support, the more difference it makes.

What the EHCP should contain

For a child with GDD, the EHCP should address all areas of delay - not just the most obvious one. It should specify: the type and frequency of therapy (SALT, OT, physio), any specialist teaching approaches, the staffing ratio needed, any equipment or resources, and how provision will be delivered. It should also include health provision (Section G) and social care provision (Section H) where needed.

Mainstream or specialist?

This is one of the biggest decisions parents face. Under the law, you have the right to express a preference for any school - mainstream or specialist. The LA must comply unless it would be unsuitable for your child, incompatible with the efficient education of other children, or an inefficient use of resources. Many children with GDD thrive in specialist settings with smaller classes, higher staff ratios, and adapted curricula. Don't be pressured into mainstream if it's not right for your child.

Long-term planning

An EHCP is a long-term document that follows your child through education from early years to age 25. It must be reviewed annually, and updated as your child's needs change. For children with GDD, transition planning is crucial - particularly the move from primary to secondary school, and from secondary to post-16 provision. EHCP Expert helps you plan for the long term, not just the next hurdle.