Supporting Children with Complex Needs: An Evidence-Informed and Holistic Approach to Create Connectivity in the Classroom

By Laura Mills and Julia Lindley-Baker

With communication and connectivity at its heart, this book equips educators with the skills, knowledge and confidence to effectively support children with complex needs in the classroom, creating meaningful experiences and fostering life-long positive outcomes for all.

Taking readers on a journey from theory to practice, the book unpicks research and introduces the SPICE model for identifying and understanding needs across five key learning domains: Social, Physical, Intellectual, Communication, and Emotional Development. It goes on to propose a learner-centred Connectivity Curriculum, with attention given to the key aspects of planning, implementation and impact. Celebrating teaching and the power of authentic relationships as a foundation for learning, the book provides a space for readers to reflect and recharge, as well as questions throughout to consolidate knowledge and understanding.

Providing practical ideas to foster a connected curriculum within SEND settings, or to facilitate inclusion within the mainstream school, this book is a must-read for teachers and both new and experienced SENCOs looking for ways to plan for and support children with complex needs.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1032293179
• ISBN13: 9781032293172
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Routledge
• Length: 130 Pages
• Weight: 0.99 lbs.