Embracing Special Educational Needs (SEN): A Guide for Parents of Primary Students
Understanding and accepting SEN for your child’s best possible future
By Les Huysmans
No parent imagines their child might need SEN support — until one day, they do. And in that moment, a whole wave of emotions can hit: worry, guilt, doubt, or fear of what the label might mean.
But recognising that your child has Special Educational Needs (SEN) doesn’t mean giving up on their potential. In fact, it can be the first powerful step toward unlocking it.
This post explores how parents can come to terms with their child’s SEN, why early recognition matters, and how collaborative support leads to brighter outcomes.
Understanding SEN in a Thai Context
In Thailand, the term SEN (Special Educational Needs) is not always widely understood. Some schools may be better equipped than others to support children with learning differences, and cultural perceptions of SEN can vary significantly between public and private settings.
It’s important to know that SEN support is not a “diagnosis” — it’s simply a recognition that your child may need a different approach in order to thrive. And you are not alone.
Coming to Terms with SEN
Many parents struggle with the idea that their child might need extra help. It’s natural. But needing support doesn’t mean your child won’t lead a fulfilling and successful life.
For example, a child diagnosed with dyslexia may initially struggle with reading, but with the right interventions — like phonics support or audio books — they can develop their strengths and build confidence.
Realising that many successful people — including Richard Branson and Steven Spielberg — have learning differences can also offer comfort and perspective.
Support groups, school workshops, or even just talking to another parent can help make sense of the journey.
Why Early Recognition Matters
The sooner we recognise SEN, the sooner we can support it. Early intervention gives children a chance to build tools that will serve them for life.
Take ADHD, for instance. A child who is struggling to focus in class might respond well to behaviour strategies, regular movement breaks, or a visual schedule. These supports become harder to introduce effectively if we wait too long.
In Thailand, many international and bilingual schools now offer routine screenings — and while they may seem daunting, they’re designed to support, not stigmatise.
SEN Doesn’t Mean a Limited Life
Accepting that your child has SEN is not the same as lowering your expectations. It’s about changing the path, not the destination.
A child with autism, for example, may have difficulties with social interaction — but also show unique strengths in patterns, logic, or creativity. With the right environment, they can flourish.
What matters most is that we look for the child’s strengths, not just their struggles.
How Schools and Parents Can Work Together
The most effective support happens when teachers, specialists, and parents collaborate regularly — not just when problems arise.
Take a child with sensory processing difficulties. If they find noisy classrooms overwhelming, a teacher might offer a quiet reading corner or allow them to wear noise-cancelling headphones. Parents can mirror those supports at home to keep things consistent.
The more joined-up the support, the more secure the child feels. And secure children are ready to learn.
Final Thoughts
Accepting and addressing your child’s SEN is not giving up on them — it’s showing up for them.
When parents and schools work together with empathy, patience, and open communication, children don’t just cope — they thrive.
If this sparked anything — questions, rants, good old curiosity — come say hi via the About Les page.
Related reads: You might also enjoy Fostering Resilience, Not Resentment: A Journey into Mindful Parenting, and Aligning Home and School: Why Consistency Is Key to Student Success.