Crossword Genius

Slide for special child (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

skid

'slide' is the definition.
('skid' can be a synonym of 'slide')

'special child' is the wordplay.
'special' becomes 's' (common abbreviation as in Special Air Service).
'child' becomes 'kid' ('kid' can be a synonym of 'child'**).
's'+'kid'='SKID'

'for' is the link.

(Other definitions for skid that I've seen before include "unpredictable motoring event" , "Slide, eg, after braking" , "Runner" , "Lose control of a car" , "Slip out of control" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app