Is my child Autistic?

If you think your child may be autistic, then it is in their best interest to gather information and have them referred for an assessment. Children who are not formally diagnosed can accumulate negative experiences which impact their self-esteem and mental health. They may be labelled as ‘disruptive’, ‘weird’ or ‘rude’ when there is a lack of understanding of their challenges or support needs. It is likely that they will need some reasonable adjustments, short-term intervention or long-term support. We are learning from adults who have had a late diagnosis, that an earlier diagnosis would have provided them with better support, helped them reach their potential and avoided mental health conditions.

There are four broad areas which will be considered by the school Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo):
• Communication & Interaction
• Social, Emotional and Mental Health difficulties
• Sensory &/or Physical Needs
• Cognition and Learning

If you can gather examples of situations where your child has had challenges in these areas, what your child expresses, and any further evidence from adults who know your child, then a picture develops around different environments.

Your child’s teacher and SENCo can observe them in the school environment and help by means of further assessments, intervention, adjustments and signposting to support services.

A referral for an autism assessment is best made when you have gathered information from those involved with your child. The assessment is made by a multi-disciplinary team, usually by a  doctor who specialises in autism and child psychologist. This can be done via the National Health Service through your local assessment service or via ‘Right to Choose’, which goes to an assessment provider who may have shorter waiting list.