Developing Decision-making with Children and Young People with SEN

Book excerpt: We all make decisions every day, but are you aware of the process you use to make a decision? This essential practical guide for education and associated professionals, using education-focused case studies throughout to illustrate key points, explains the mechanics of decision-making, introducing the associated language and concepts. It presents both a practical decision-making framework based in the Mental Capacity Act decision-making process, and a decision-making syllabus, from which education professionals can create their own curriculum. Being able to make decisions is an important life skill, which can have a positive impact on well-being. However, many children and young people with SEN will need direct teaching and guidance to develop this ability, from the earliest age. The book explores the types of important decisions children and young people may need to make in relation to their education, with particular focus on choosing a new educational placement, providing practical guidance about how education professionals can support young people to make this decision. There is reference throughout the book as to the ways in which practitioners can work in partnership with parents to support and develop children and young people’s decision-making ability. Appendices provide completed decision-making frameworks and associated guidance.