ASD attention difficulties

[Lottie234d]

Hi,

I have a just turned 8 year old son, who was diagnosed with ASD in Reception . He suffers from anxiety since Covid and also is having an ax for ADHD. Since covid his attention span has gradually declined to the point he rarely engages in activities at home the computer, toys or books. He mainly talks to himself whilst on the move and appears to be struggling to regulate more and more and has periods of extreme hyperactivity/silly behaviour. Is this likely to be due to anxiety? Has anyone been through this?. He appears to have struggled with the transition to Juniors and I'm wondering if school is partly causing this. I'm just concerned about the decline in attention.

It could be anxiety, but it could also be due to other things e.g. sensory difficulties &/or executive dysfunction.

What support is the school providing?

He has a 1:1 and is on a reduced timetable of mornings. A full day appears to cause him ongoing anxiety. He attends the nurture provision for part of lunchtimes.

He appears happy when out doing activities such as parks, trampolining etc but unsettled at home or perhaps trying to process things? I just want to understand why there has Bern such a big change the last year

Does DS have an EHCP? If so, you need to request an early review. Does it include therapies e.g. sensory OT? When was the last time DS had EP, SALT, OT assessments? If DS doesn’t have an EHCP you should request an EHCNA - IPSEA have a model letter you can use.

If DS can’t attend school full time the LA should be making alternative arrangements instead or as well as part time school, are they?

It may be that DS is masking and ‘coping’ out of the house but exploding/collapsing at home. It’s called the coke bottle effect. The increased demands as DS has gotten older and transitioned to juniors can heighten this.

Thank you for your replies. DS has an IDP. SALT went back in last week to assess following a re-referral by myself. Paediatrician's appointment has been cancelled twice so DS hasn't been seen for a year. I have a meeting to review IDP next week. I am concerned that DS is not managing in mainstream and also about the reduced timetable on an ongoing basis.

We had very little involvement from OT. As very delayed. Never saw DS in person

Sorry meant OT assessment very delayed and discharged quickly

The IDP can include ongoing direct SALT and OT therapy.

SNAPCymru can help with improving the IDP and securing provision to ensure DS receives a full time education.