A Play & Support Group for Children with Additional Needs in North London

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What to expect

Special Needs Parents’ Support Group Muswell Hill

What to expect ♡ Special Needs Parents’ Support Group Muswell Hill ♡

A warm welcome to you! Whether you are at the start of navigating this complex journey, or you’ve been stepping this path for many years; here at Challenge Group we accept all families.

Our play & support group runs every Monday throughout the school holidays at Muswell Hill Methodist Church on Pages Lane 10:30am - 12pm.

We have toys and activities for the children, tea/coffee, cake and fruit, and we are grateful to Kathy who offers complimentary chair massages.

In addition to our weekly group, we also have a thriving WhatsApp Group where you can ask advice, share the highs and lows, and feel connected to those on a similar journey to you.

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What to expect at our ⁠SEND parent support group in Haringey

Coming to a new group — especially when you and your child already have a lot to juggle — can feel daunting. At Challenge Group, we want you to know from the moment you arrive that you are welcome, valued, supported, and never judged.

Here’s what you can expect when you join us:

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When you arrive, someone from our team will greet you and help you settle in. If your child prefers a quiet space or needs time to adjust, that’s absolutely fine — we’ll work with you to make it as easy as possible.

A Warm Welcome

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This is a place where you and your child can just be yourselves. There’s no pressure, no expectations, and no judgment — just understanding, support, and kindness. You’ll meet other parents who “get it” and who understand the highs and lows of raising a child with additional needs.

A Relaxed, Friendly Atmosphere

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Play and Fun for the Children

Your child can play with a variety of toys and sensory activities in a safe, inclusive environment. We adapt where we can to meet each child’s needs, and children are celebrated just as they are.

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Care for You Too

We know how important it is to look after parents as well as children. Each session includes:

Homemade cake and refreshments

A bouquet of flowers gifted weekly by local florist Jo Loraine

The chance for a free relaxing massage

All of this is our way of reminding you that you matter too.

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A Community That Lasts

Many of our families have made lifelong friendships here. We also have an active WhatsApp group (now over 90 members) where you can ask questions, share wins and challenges, and stay connected between sessions.

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Whatever your background, heritage, faith, or situation — you and your family are welcome here. We celebrate diversity and will always do our best to adapt to your needs and make you feel at home.

Everyone Welcome

For Parents & Carers of Children with SEN and Disabilities in Haringey

Challenge Group Muswell Hill, a stay and play for children with additional and specialist needs

Challenge Group is for any parent, carer, or family of a child with additional needs or disabilities — diagnosed, undiagnosed, or just beginning the journey of seeking support.

We welcome families from all walks of life and all backgrounds. You don’t need a referral, and you don’t need to “qualify” — if you feel this space would help you and your child, you belong here.

Some of the children who come to Challenge have conditions including:

  • Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC)

  • Down’s syndrome

  • Developmental delays

  • Global Developmental Delay

  • Language and communication difficulties (including DLD — developmental language disorder)

  • Genetic conditions

  • Physical disabilities

  • Behavioural or emotional difficulties

  • Other additional or complex needs

We also welcome parents and carers who simply feel isolated, overwhelmed, or who want to connect with others who understand.

We believe that every child — and every parent — deserves to feel seen, supported, and celebrated, just as they are.

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We do post on Social Media a little bit… but we are most active on our welcoming WhatsApp group, get in touch if you’d like to be added.