Special needs childcare in Portugal

Finding the right childcare services when raising a child with special needs can feel like a challenging task. Especially when living abroad. In this article, we'll explore everything parents need to know about caring for children with special needs in Portugal. From legal requirements to resources, support network and services available for families.

Legal framework and rights for special needs children in Portugal

The Portuguese legal system for children with disabilities

In Portugal, children with disabilities are protected by Decree-Law 54/2018, ensuring equal access to education and care. This law guarantees specialized educational programs, therapies, and financial assistance. While children are often integrated into mainstream education, specialized centers are available for those needing intensive support.

Applying for Disability Support in Portugal

If you’ve recently moved to Portugal and have a child with special needs, it’s crucial to apply for the Disability Certificate (Atestado de Incapacidade Multiuso). This certificate provides access to essential services and financial support, such as reduced taxes, specialized healthcare, and discounts on goods and services.

Living in Portugal with a special needs child: essential information

Healthcare access for children with disabilities

Portugal’s Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) offers comprehensive healthcare for children with disabilities, covering general medical care, specialized pediatric services, and therapies such as speech, occupational, and physical therapy. It is important to register your child with SNS for access to these services. Additionally, services like Baby Sisters can assist with medical transport or accompany your child to appointments.

Special needs school system

Children with special needs are typically integrated into mainstream schools in Portugal. Inclusive education programs are offered, but there are also specialized options for children with more severe disabilities. Schools have trained support staff, and parents work with administrators to develop an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) tailored to their child’s specific needs.

Support measures

For children up to age 6, the National Early Childhood Intervention System (SNIPI) provides support for families.

As children transition to elementary school, the relevant documentation must be presented to ensure continuity of support. Additional resources, such as special education teachers or specialized technicians, may be requested from the Ministry of Education if needed.

From the age of 6, the measures vary according to the educational needs defined by the teachers, after listening to the parents and teachers accompanying the student.

For all students, including those who need specific or additional measures, measures are adopted which aim to pedagogical differentiation, adapting material and enriching the curriculum, promoting socialization and promoting academic or behavioral focus.

Specific measures can be put into practice with the help of special education teachers, specialized technicians or even operational assistants, as well as using materials from the school itself.

If necessary, the school principal can request more resources from the Ministry of Education.

In exceptional cases, additional measures may be taken, such as:

attendance of the year by subject;
significant curricular adaptations;
individual transition plan;
structured teaching methodologies;
development of personal and social autonomy skills.

Support networks for parents of children with disabilities in Portugal

Support groups

Connecting with other families is invaluable when raising a child with special needs. Portugal offers various national and local organizations that provide support and advocacy for families, including:

Federação Portuguesa de Autismo – Provides resources for families with children on the autism spectrum.
Associação Pais em Rede - A national network offering advice and support on education, healthcare, and navigating the Portuguese system for children with various disabilities.
Centro de Paralisia Cerebral de Lisboa (CPCL): Provides specialized services for children with cerebral palsy.

Therapy and educational resources

Portugal offers a wide range of therapy options for children with special needs, including speech, occupational, and behavioral therapies. These services are often covered by SNS, but private alternatives are also available. Some examples include:

Speech Therapy: Available through SNS and private clinics;
Occupational Therapy: Focuses on improving motor skills and daily functioning, offered at centers
Physical Therapy: Available in SNS hospitals and private clinics;
Behavioral Therapy: Commonly used for autism or ADHD, available at private centers;
Psychotherapy and Psychological Support: Available through SNS and private centers.

Finding the right childcare for your special needs kids

Caring for a child with disabilities requires specialized training and attention. Not all babysitters are equipped to handle the complex needs of children with autism, Down syndrome, ADHD, or other developmental challenges. This is where services like Baby Sisters play a crucial role.

Why choose Baby Sisters for special needs childcare?

At Baby Sisters, we understand the challenges of caring for children with special needs. Our caregivers are experienced in working with children with various disabilities and receive specialized training to meet their emotional, educational, and medical needs. Our babysitters can assist with:

Daily activities such as feeding, dressing, and bathing.
Educational support to help with schoolwork and learning.
Medical care, including administering medication and handling emergencies.

We conduct thorough background checks to ensure that all caregivers meet high standards, offering you peace of mind that your child is in capable hands. As a parent of a child with special needs, reliable and compassionate support is essential.

Baby Sisters offers tailored services to help you manage day-to-day responsibilities, from temporary relief to full-time caregiving. We help you balance your family life with the specialized care your child requires.

If you’re living in Portugal or planning to move here and need a trustworthy babysitting service for your special needs child, Baby Sisters is here to support you. Our caregivers are passionate about making a positive difference in your family’s life, ensuring that your child receives the personalized attention they deserve.