Am i wrong to think that there is no sharp dividing line between children with SN and those without?

[OrmRenewed]

I don't want to tread on anyone's toes (cringing a bit even typing this) but it is not true to say that many children have different needs and abilities that might well put them somewhere on the autistic spectrum, without being diagnosed or without being seen as having any diagnosable 'problems'.

I ask because I get regularly concerned about DS#2's behaviour. He's been assessed by the SENCO but there is nothing 'wrong'. Which is fine, I don't want there to be anything wrong. But when he goes through one of his phases of endless tantrums and losing it big time about things that wouldn't even occur to most of us, or gets one of his little obsessions into his head it seems clear to me that he isn't the same as his siblings or most other children I know - in the way that he relates to the world and other people. I refuse to accept he is simply 'naughty' for want of a better word.

Is it more constructive to see all children as being at different points along a line?

Of course there is a spectrum (not talking about ASD, but about behaviour in 'normal' children).

However, if a child's behaviour is causing him/her long term problems in any respect, it needs investigating by professionals other than just a SENCO.

That's my opinion.

I spent too long in denial about my DS's behaviour when HFA/Asperger's (not sure which yet) was staring me in the face all along. It doesn't mean that AS explains all aspects of my son's behaviour or personality - no way. He is who he is, AS or not. But it is a prism through which he sees and experiences the world, and it helps everyone involved in caring for and supporting him to understand that.

I only wish I had recognised it sooner. It is incredibly damaging for a small child to be labelled difficult or naughty.

Orm - that sounds very positive. I do hope it works.

Orm - that does sound good. Also - sorry if this is teaching metaphorical grandmothers to suck eggs - something I find works with mine is to count backwards from 5 to 1 - gets their arses in gear most times.

Not tried counting backwards. I'll give it a go

We had a few discussions about whether the 'jobs' would get ticks or stickers. DH reckoned it was worth arguing over . Persuaded him it wasn't as it's DS's project not ours. He's in bed - eventually and looking forward to filling in his chart in the morning. WOuld have been easier but I had to watch Holby City and drink some wine rather than dedicating myself 100% to DS. Must remember 'I HAVE NO LIFE!' .

You will have a life, everything will fall into place.