DD8 just diagnosed with ASD. What do I need to know?

[MuggleMe]

I've suspected since the start of the process, various sensory, behavioural and social tells that build if you know her. I feel relieved that there is now a shorthand for others to understand the extent of her needs.

But what do I need to know now? Any good books for me to read with her on girls with autism? Good resources? She struggles with self esteem and confidence.

What about an EHCP? She's also got dyslexia so together I did wonder if it might be enough. She's usually ok to stay in class, sometimes with colouring breaks and support from the teacher for reassurance, scribing and explaining. She's particularly struggling with friendships at the moment.

Thanks in advance.

Scope have a mentoring service for parents of recently diagnosed DC.

Has DD had a sensory OT assessment?

Support in schools is based on needs not diagnosis, so won’t change just because DD has an ASD diagnosis. Have you spoken to the SENCO? What support are they currently providing? If you think DD requires more support than the school can or will provide you can apply for an EHCNA - IPSEA and SOSSEN have lots of helpful information on their websites including model letters.

Purple Ella, Tania Marshall and Sarah Hendricks are worth looking at.

Thanks @Thatsnotmycar. I'll start thinking about what support she needs and isn't getting. A 'safe' adult to debrief after lunch was suggested by the consultant who diagnosed but not possible due to the number of staff available.

I'd love for her to get more support for her dyslexia, currently paying for a private dyslexia specialist tutor to build the foundations missed.

Thanks for signposting. Waiting for the support pack to come through with the paperwork.