You have a rare aptitude for truly seeing a child with additional needs as just another child who needs some support. That has helped me so much as a mum to realise that my little boy is still that, a little boy that just needs some extra help. You don’t just help the children; you help the families too without even realising it.

My son attended CLDP for a year prior to play school. He has Down Syndrome. He was assigned a programme suited to his needs which was reviewed with us his parents and his early intervention team on a regular basis. I feel that the one-to-one tuition was the biggest advantage. Also he learned to sit and listen and be part of a group in a classroom environment. From removing his coat, taking his lunch and toilet training, Joan and the staff were all fantastic in giving him his independence. When he started play school the following year he was more than able to hold his own. CLDP gave him the best start for school life.

Every day Conor looks forward to going to CLDP. He has a great relationship with the staff there. It is a huge relief to me knowing that he is happy there, he has also made some lovely friends there, and it is great to see that. The staff are so friendly and very helpful and are always available to talk and offer good advice. We will always be extremely thankful to the staff at CLDP for their commitment and help with our son Conor.