Free Udemy Course: Supporting Autism & Dyslexia in Early Childhood Education

With growing awareness around neurodiversity, early years educators and support staff are expected to play a vital role in ensuring inclusive education. This Supporting Autism & Dyslexia in Early Childhood Education course is a comprehensive, CPD-accredited program designed to equip you with practical knowledge, empathy, and actionable teaching strategies.Every child deserves a fair start in life—but for children with Autism and Dyslexia, early intervention and appropriate support are critical. This in-depth course, Supporting Autism & Dyslexia in Early Childhood Education, is designed for educators, caregivers, and teaching assistants committed to making a real difference in the lives of neurodiverse children.Through a well-structured, CPD-accredited curriculum, you will gain a clear understanding of Special Educational Needs (SEN), with a particular focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Dyslexia in early years settings. From recognising the subtle early signs to exploring the neurological foundations of these conditions, the course provides you with essential tools and actionable teaching strategies for inclusive practice.You’ll begin by examining what Autism is—its social perceptions, types (including Asperger’s, Rett Syndrome, and CDD), and key challenges faced by children with ASD. You'll learn how to communicate effectively with autistic learners, support their cognitive development, and create structured classroom environments using frameworks like S.P.E.L.L. and techniques rooted in child psychology.The second half of the course focuses on Dyslexia, explaining the categories, causes, symptoms, and associated learning difficulties. You will discover how to differentiate Dyslexia from other neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD and dyspraxia, and apply practical classroom adaptations that support reading, writing, and confidence building.You’ll also explore the role of assessment, both for Autism and Dyslexia, and learn how to contribute to Individual Education Plans (IEPs), collaborate with SENCOs, and promote emotional resilience in children. Finally, the course highlights the strengths and unique abilities of children with learning differences—helping you shift from a deficit-based approach to a strengths-based perspective.Whether you're working in a nursery, primary classroom, or home setting, this course offers the knowledge and confidence to support neurodiverse learners and foster a truly inclusive early childhood environment.