How to start investigating neurodiversity for my son

[BigWhiteRabbit]

Hi, exactly as the title says, I would like to know how one goes about exploring if my son is neurodiverse as I wonder if the challenges I perceive my son to have are related to neurodiversity.

He's 7 years old. I'm hesitant to put him through anything if it creates extra stress for him.

What is the process please? Is it just via school or are there other means?

He's already received pre CAHMS intervention via a pilot scheme run in my Borough. This was parent lead, ie he was unaware we were getting support.

I don't want to put him through meetings, tests etc unless there is good reason. Any advice would be much appreciated.

Thanks

My child was a lot younger (3) and I just told her that a couple of ladies wanted to play with some toys with her. Talking to the paediatrician went right over her head, in a way it probably wouldn't with a 7yo.

Can you put feelers out with your child? Does he perceive these as challenges? So if he struggles to sit still, suggest that you can see a doctor to see if there's anything they can do to help. Etc. The testing isn't invasive or painful and to my daughter, she literally just got to play with toys and have a chat with the lady.

You can always implement things to help without a diagnosis, like provide sensory toys, visual timetables etc.

What does he actually struggle with? Being more specific with them might help people give better advice.