Special needs children: recognising needs and helping families seek appropriate support.
Our story • Our purpose
A community built around families.
CHILD SPARKS grew from a parent-led community established in Harrow on 14 September 2018. Parents came together to share what they were learning, help one another and create more opportunities for their children.
Our story
What began as a local parent group has grown through the time, experience and care shared by families. Becoming a registered charity is the next stage of that work, helping us strengthen our governance, develop activities and reach more families while keeping our parent-led values.
Parents know the everyday questions that come with supporting their own child. Sharing what has helped, what has been difficult and what they have learned makes that experience useful to other families. Professional knowledge adds another perspective, helping parents understand different approaches and consider what may work for their child.
Our mission
To support children and young people with neurodevelopmental needs, and their families, through practical resources, learning, peer support, activities and signposting. Our long-standing approach is “Achieve Resilience by Empowering the Child through Parents”.
Our vision
A society where children and young people with neurodevelopmental needs are understood, accepted and included, and where their families have the knowledge, support and community they need.
What SPARKS stands for
Promote: promoting wellbeing, development, opportunity and quality of life.
Acceptance: challenging stigma and helping children and families feel understood and included.
Resilience: building the confidence and support networks that help families adapt and keep moving forward.
Knowledge: sharing useful, timely information that families can understand and act on.
Support Group: creating a community where families, friends and professionals support one another.
Where we work
CHILD SPARKS supports children, young people and their families in England and Wales, in line with our charitable objects. Our wider community includes families across the UK. We may also work with other organisations where this supports our charitable aims.
A next step, together