In denial

[coocoo123]

I have a child who is nearly 3, who is non-verbal and has several/most autistic traits.
The professionals and nursery have said at the moment it is classed as ‘delay development’ but it is too early to give a diagnosis.

All signs are pointing to autism but I still cling on to hope that it is just ‘delay development’ and will catch up eventually.

Has anyone ever experienced this?

My child was diagnosed at the age of 2.

It’s such a difficult situation to be in as a parent.

what professionals has your daughter seen? Is she having speech therapy? Is she on the ASD pathway?

Just a paediatrician, we are on a waiting list for ST, we also have a few tests booked in to rule stuff out.

Does it get easier once the diagnosis has been made?

I would also ask for a referral to occupational therapy as well as speech therapy.

Also consider applying for an ehcp. They can take a while to organise as councils often like to turn you down.

Im not sure it gets easier with a diagnosis, but at least you have answers and can start properly moving forwards. If diagnosed, you’ll like be offered a place on the Early Bird course, which is helpful.

Also consider applying for DLA.

Sign up for Laura Mize’s emails- they are useful.

I know it’s hard. I wish I could be of more help.

Thank you so much for all your information

i will look into all of the things you have mentioned. ❤️

I found diagnosis helped. School were still shit. But diagnosis helped sometimes.

If your child turns out to be autistic, please don't send them for ABA.

If your child turns out to be non-verbal, AAC devices can be life-changing.

All signs are pointing to autism but I still cling on to hope that it is just ‘delay development’ and will catch up eventually.

I'm autistic, as are many regulars on this board (for neurodivergent adults), and I'm not entirely comfortable with my diagnosis, core to the nature of my existence, as being seen as something to be hoped against.

How people feel about being autistic is variable. I understand why you feel you don't want your kid to be autistic.

I wish I weren't autistic often. I wish the children weren't. The world is not adapted for us.

You might find more tailored advice on the SEN chat board which has been useful for advice for children with SEN.

I wish the world fitted us better. But it's the world, not us, that's the problem.

Sorry if I didnt elaborate and I can understand that I didnt go into detail & my wording was not great. I think I have autism and I do think a lot more of us do and have not yet been diagnosed, I know autism can range but as someone said the world fitted them better so as a parent you worry about everyone fitting in! The world can be a cruel place.
I am so sorry if I offended anyone I dont mean to. I am not being ignorant I just wanted to know if anyone was going through the same thing.
i just really hope for even a single word 😞😞
I love my child to bits and everyone is beautiful and unique as individuals

i just really hope for even a single word 😞😞

Spoken word or unprompted clear communication?

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Happy-Learners-Communication-Emotions-Feelings/dp/B07PFFS3SB/ref=asc_df_B07PFFS3SB might help your child communicate, whether they are speech delayed or autistic.