‘High functioning’ in ‘ ‘ because I know it’s not a term that is used but is the reason behind my question. My son is very capable in so many ways but does have difficulties.
DS (6) is probably autistic but due to long waiting list is a long way off being assessed. We’re 1 year into a 2 (more likely 3) year wait.
His main difficulties are
- meltdowns - happen probably every day or every other day ranging from 20 minutes to an hour. During this he will throw things and scream.
- very difficult to take out alone as will have meltdowns in shops which usually requires him to be carried back to the car which I can’t do alone.
- he can find uncertainty difficult so we use visual timetables etc.
- Can be very difficult to transition between activities.
His ‘worst day’ could be written down as pretty dreadful but his best days he can be a delight.
My hesitation comes from
- He’s mostly ‘fine in school’. A very clever boy who enjoys school and goes willingly - I don’t know who would support the application.
- We have enough money to pay for any extra things out of savings
- I don’t know what we’d spend the money on - some kind of therapy to help manage meltdowns? Sensory aids?
- He’s probably not much different to a neurotypical but difficult child.
I don’t even know whether he would be awarded anything but I don’t know whether it’s selfish not to apply as if we did get some extra money we would use it solely for him.