Monmouthshire County Council are offering a parent programme for parents and carers of children who are autistic or currently going through the diagnostic process.
EarlyBird Plus is a National Autistic Society licensed programme for parents and carers of children aged 4–10. The programme is free and evidence informed, helping families better understand and support children with autism.
It is delivered locally by Monmouthshire’s Educational Psychology Service and our Early Years Additional Learning Needs Advisory Teacher, all of whom have been trained by the National Autistic Society EarlyBird Centre.
The programme consists of six sessions and aims to give parents and carers a greater understanding of autism, communication, autistic experiences, wellbeing, social interaction and supporting everyday life. It also provides an opportunity for families to meet other parents in similar situations, share experiences and build supportive networks.
Where possible, a member of school staff is also invited to take part, helping to ensure consistency between home and school.
There are currently sessions planned for:
- 9 October – 19 November – an in-person programme at County Hall, Usk, running on Thursday mornings (no session in half term)
- 11 May to 22 June 2027 – an online programme on Tuesday mornings (no session during half term)
The programme has been running successfully in Monmouthshire for a number of years and feedback from both parents and school staff has been extremely positive. Parents have described it as “invaluable to understanding autism” and highlighted the benefits of connecting with other families who are facing similar experiences.
School staff have also commented on how the knowledge gained is put into practice in supporting children.
Monmouthshire County Council Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Laura Wright, said: “This programme is an invaluable way for parents and carers to gain support and understanding when it comes to autism.
“I would urge all those parents and carers who are eligible to find out more and come along.”
To find out more, email aln@monmouthshire.gov.uk or call 01633 644412.