Finding the Right Support: A Family's Journey with Craighalbert

When one family's twin daughters arrived prematurely at just 27 weeks, they knew the road ahead would not be straightforward.

Following a difficult pregnancy and a diagnosis of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, the family faced significant uncertainty about the future. At six months old, one of the twins was diagnosed with cerebral palsy after experiencing developmental delays and difficulties with movement and muscle control.

For the family, the diagnosis brought a new reality of specialist appointments, therapy referrals and ongoing medical support.

"It quickly became overwhelming and frightening," their mother Stephanie explains. "We were a young family with two tiny babies, and nothing felt straightforward."

As their daughter grew, it became clear that she would require ongoing specialist support. With complex physical needs, feeding difficulties and significant developmental challenges, finding the right educational environment was a major concern for the family.

It was while exploring nursery options that they first discovered Craighalbert.

"We visited several ASN nurseries, but Craighalbert immediately felt right," she says. "What stood out was the integrated approach, therapy built into the school day, all specialists under one roof and access to hydrotherapy. The staff understood our daughter's needs and welcomed us as a family."

Before joining the nursery, the child and Stephanie attended Craighalbert's Early Intervention Programme. Through physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, music and sensory sessions, she benefited from specialist support while her mother connected with other families facing similar experiences.

"For the first time, we felt that we truly belonged and that we weren't alone."

When she turned three, she transitioned into Craighalbert's nursery and has continued her journey through primary and secondary education at the centre.

Over the years, Craighalbert's integrated team has supported her through many challenges, including surgeries, hospital stays, anxiety related to change and the ongoing impact of dystonia. Staff have continually adapted learning, positioning and therapeutic support to ensure she remains comfortable, included and able to participate fully in school life.

One of the most significant developments has been supporting her communication.

Through the introduction of communication technology and switches, she has been given new ways to express herself, make choices and ensure her voice is heard.

"Our daughter may be non-verbal, but she certainly has a big personality," Stephanie says. "The staff embrace this and encourage her to express herself and try new things."

Today, she is a happy and confident young person who continues to achieve in her own unique way.

Reflecting on their journey, Stephanie believes the specialist support available at Craighalbert has been transformational, not only for her daughter but for the whole family.

"The children are truly at the heart of everything they do. Their belief in our daughter has never wavered, and they have supported us through every stage of her journey."

The family hopes that sharing their story will help others understand the importance of early intervention and specialist support for children with complex communication, learning, health and care needs.

"Every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of the challenges they face. With the right support at the right time, children can achieve far more than others may expect.

For our family, Craighalbert has made that possible."