Recognising need early: having confident conversations about children's needs 

Young children don't always have the words to tell us what they need. What we notice in their communication, behaviour, play, relationships and emotional responses can provide important clues about how they're experiencing the world. 

But recognising a possible concern is only the first step. 

Ofsted’s current Early Years inspection guidance places a clear focus on identifying children’s needs quickly, including emerging or changing needs. This sits within a wider policy shift towards earlier identification, earlier intervention and more inclusive practice, making it increasingly important for settings to feel confident noticing concerns and taking the right next steps. 

This practical webinar will explore how Early Years practitioners can build confidence in understanding what they're noticing, finding the language to describe it professionally, and having supportive conversations with colleagues, families and other professionals. 

We'll consider how to discuss observations in ways that maintain the dignity of the child, focus on strengths and needs rather than labels, and acknowledge that children may present differently at home and in nursery. 

Practitioners will come away with greater confidence in recognising emerging needs, articulating concerns respectfully and working in partnership with families to ensure children receive the right support at the right time. 

By attending this webinar, you'll: 

• Feel more confident trusting and articulating your professional observations, moving from "I've noticed something" to describing your observations clearly and respectfully. 

• Learn how to describe concerns in a way that is respectful, objective and child-centred. 

• Gain practical approaches for discussing emerging needs with colleagues and families. 

• Understand why children may present differently at home and in nursery, and how to navigate those differences constructively. 

• Leave with greater confidence in taking the next steps to support children at the right time.