What Structures Exist in France for Caring for Children with DYS Disorders?

Once diagnosed, a child with a DYS disorder can benefit from specific care, whether for rehabilitation or psychological support. Here’s an overview of the various structures available in France to support them and help them build independence and confidence. This is separate from professionals such as speech therapists, psychologists, or psychomotor therapists, available in private practices or hospital services.

Learning disorder reference centres (Centres de référence)

Since 2004, there has been a reference centre for learning disorders in every French region, as well as in Réunion. This multidisciplinary consultation unit is generally attached to a university hospital team. It brings together professionals from different fields to provide an accurate diagnosis and tailored care, both at home and at school. It also oversees follow-up and coordination of care and takes part in training professionals.

DYS health networks (Réseaux de santé DYS)

Grouped under a federation (FNRS TNA – Fédération Nationale des Réseaux de Santé des Troubles du Neuro-développement et des Apprentissages de l’enfant, the French National Federation of Health Networks for Neurodevelopmental and Learning Disorders in Children), these health networks were created to coordinate care between the various professionals involved, to support children with DYS disorders. There are around ten of them across France (Marseille, Dijon, Saint-Brieuc, Saint-Étienne, Lyon, Le Havre, Loos…).

Medical-Psycho-Pedagogical Centres (CMPP)

Grouped under a federation, there are 309 Centres Médico-Psycho-Pédagogiques (CMPP) across France. Aimed at children and teenagers aged 0 to 20 with language or behavioural disorders, this space for listening, prevention, and care lets them meet various professionals (child psychiatrists, psychologists, speech therapists, educators, etc.) under the responsibility of a doctor.

Medical-Psychological Centres (CMP)

Centres Médico-Psychologiques (CMP) are attached to a hospital: these “catchment area” services (assigned according to where you live) provide access to free multidisciplinary consultations (funded by French social security) for children, teenagers, and adults. They bring together healthcare staff (psychiatrist, psychologist, nurse, speech therapist…) and social work professionals (educator, social worker…).

Home-based Specialised Education and Care Services (SESSAD)

Operating in the various settings where young people aged 0 to 20 live their lives, Services d’Éducation Spécialisée et de Soins A Domicile (SESSAD) are so-called “mobile” services that can support your child at home, but also at school or during sports activities. By providing specialised care and rehabilitation across various areas (physiotherapy, occupational therapy…), this multi-skilled team aims for both individual and collective integration of children with DYS disorders. Note that these interventions are generally organised around a PPS (Personalised Schooling Plan).

Beyond the benefits of a multidisciplinary assessment, personalised care for your child, tailored to their DYS disorders and how severe they are, is an undeniable asset in helping them learn to work around their difficulties as quickly as possible.