About Us

Special Steps is a nursery specifically catering for children with additional needs, with a focus on speech, language and communication. We have two sites, both located on Minster Road in Stourport — one for children aged 1–3 (the Polar Bear Room) and the other for children aged 3–4 (the Panda Room). In each room we take a maximum of 8 children per day with a staffing ratio of 1 adult to 2 children.

We support children with a wide range of needs and tailor our approach to each individual child. We use a total communication system, incorporating symbols, pictures, objects of reference, sign language and speech, to promote communication in the way that best suits each child. A specialist curriculum ensures each child progresses at a pace appropriate to them. Daily 1:1 sessions are also carried out to support Speech and Language Therapy targets, in close collaboration with the Speech and Language Therapists (SALT) team who regularly visit to review and support each child.

At both the Polar Bear and Panda Rooms, we provide a structured environment that includes a main playroom, sensory room, and a garden area. A typical day includes free play, breakfast, and a Hello song to promote self-awareness and emotional understanding using mirrors and personal photos. This is followed by individual targeted interventions and group song time.

In the afternoons, children take part in craft activities based on the current topic, as well as parachute games. During afternoon snack, we follow the Eating as Learning curriculum to help foster positive relationships with food, particularly beneficial for children with restricted diets.

Learn more about how The Feeding Trust supports positive mealtimes through education and training. Click here to visit their website.

We understand that many of our children are unable to share their day verbally, so we provide a detailed daily diary outlining what they have done, including progress towards their individual targets. Multiple photos from the day are also shared. Additionally, we use a secure app to provide live updates, including nappy changes, application of sun cream, and any accident forms — keeping families informed in real time.

Learn more about how we use the Baby's Days app to keep parents informed in real-time. Click here to visit their website.