Autism
Nursery for autistic children
Understood, not managed. A calm, structured day for autistic and awaiting-assessment children in Southall.
Many of the children at The Nurture Nest are autistic or waiting for an assessment, and our founders have spent years in Ealing’s SEND and Inclusion Team and in autism-specialist settings. We do not ask autistic children to fit a mainstream day. We build the day around how they communicate, play and regulate.
Every child has a key person, a visual timetable, a now-and-next board where it helps, a predictable routine and a sensory room to return to. Communication is supported with Makaton, pictures and simple consistent language, and interests are used as the way in to learning rather than something to be redirected.
How we support this
Low demand, high connection
We follow the child’s lead and build trust before we build targets.
Sensory regulation
Bubble tube, fibre optics, deep-pressure cushions and quiet dens, used proactively through the day.
Communication
Speech and Language Therapy principles embedded daily; specialist SALT available on site.
Transitions
Visual warnings, objects of reference and the same adult, so changes feel safe.
Parent partnership
Home strategies, social stories and workshops on sensory regulation and behaviour.
Next steps
EHCP support and planned transitions to mainstream or specialist school.
What parents say
5.0★★★★★Google · 2 reviewsWe honestly couldn't be more impressed with this nursery. It's so refreshing to see a setting that is SEN-focused while being genuinely inclusive and welcoming to every child. It feels like they've created an environment where every child is seen as an individual and their needs are understood and supported. The nursery is exceptionally clean, bright and welcoming, with so much thought put into the imaginative play and activities. What really stands out is the level of one-to-one attention they give to each child.
The facilities at the nurture nest are outstanding! I have been coming to the stay and play for around 6 months with my 2 year old as I was slightly concerned that he was delayed in his speech.
Questions parents ask
Does my child need a diagnosis to join?
No. Waiting lists for assessment in West London are long and we never make a child wait for support.
How do you handle meltdowns?
With co-regulation, space and a calm adult, never punishment. We record what happened before, during and after so we can reduce triggers.
Is the setting quiet?
Groups are small (1:3), rooms are calm and structured, and the sensory room is always available.
Can my child still go to a mainstream school?
That is the goal for many of our children. Individual programmes focus on the communication, independence and regulation skills that make reception work.
Families come to us from
Southall, Hanwell and Ealing first, then Greenford, Northolt, Hayes, Norwood Green, Heston, Hounslow, Brentford and further across West London.
Come and see us
Free Stay & Play every Monday 10:00–11:30, or book a tour any weekday. Call or WhatsApp 07909 932193.
- 1Stay & PlayFree, every Monday 10:00–11:30
- 2Visit and chatMeet the team, see the rooms
- 3Play-based assessmentYour child's plan takes shape
- 4Settle and startAt your child's pace, with a key person