School support for children with global developmental delay
If a child is progressing more slowly than their peers in several areas, everyday school life can quickly become overwhelming. A school support worker provides your child with stability, time and just the right amount of support – based on the principle: as much support as necessary, as little as possible.
How a global developmental delay manifests itself in everyday school life
Every child develops differently – here are some typical challenges.
- Delays in several areas: language, motor skills, cognitive development and social behaviour are all delayed simultaneously.
- Slower learning pace: New material requires more repetition and more time to be fully grasped.
- Independence in daily life: Getting dressed, packing their school bag or organising their day is more difficult than for children of the same age.
- Participation in the group: Keeping up with the pace of the class and making friends does not always come naturally.
How our support helps
We start from where your child is right now – and grow alongside them.
- Clear structure: A manageable, reliable daily routine provides security and makes learning easier → Structuring
- Promoting independence: We practise, step by step, what your child will soon be able to do on their own → Promoting independence
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC): Where speech is still a challenge, pictures, signs or symbols help with communication → AAC
- Independence as the goal: We phase out our support as soon as your child no longer needs it.
Legal basis & application
In the case of a (potential) disability, a school support worker may be considered as an integration support service provided by the social services department under Section 112 of SGB IX. If a mental health component is the primary concern, Section 35a of SGB VIII may also apply in individual cases. Which funding body is responsible depends on the specific needs – we will guide you through the entire process.
Qualifications of our support workers
Our support workers undergo a multi-stage selection process and are trained at our own Splash Academy. For support in cases of developmental delays, we prepare them specifically for structured approaches, step-by-step support and assisted communication – so that your child receives tailored support.
Frequently asked questions
What does ‘global developmental delay’ mean?
It describes a developmental delay across several areas simultaneously – such as language, motor skills, cognitive development and social behaviour. In younger children, it is often still unclear how they will develop further.
Can a school support worker help your child catch up?
It is not a substitute for therapy, but it creates the conditions under which your child can learn and participate as effectively as possible in everyday school life – at their own pace.
Will this make my child dependent on help?
On the contrary. Our aim is independence: we withdraw support as soon as your child no longer needs it.
Is this possible at a mainstream school?
Yes. We provide support at mainstream and special schools, depending on where your child is best placed.
How soon can we get started?
Simply get in touch with us. During a free initial consultation, we’ll assess your child’s needs and go through the next steps for applying.
Let’s talk about your child
In a free initial consultation, we’ll discuss your child’s needs, the application process and the next steps – with no obligation.
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Our own Splash Academy · Multi-stage selection process · Support at mainstream and special needs schools
This page is for information purposes only and does not replace medical or legal advice. The decision as to whether school support is suitable and eligible for funding is made by the relevant funding body on a case-by-case basis.