When did you start going to autism only sessions and use support/ resources in the community?

[Gahhhhereheisagain]

Pre diagnosis? Or waited until after?
I feel like a complete imposter in autism only spaces, as if someone will question me or demand some sort of evidence. Same with the low stimulus sort of areas in airports or festivals.
Am I overthinking?

If DC needs adjustments e.g. sensory areas at airports etc. then don’t feel a fraud for asking for and accepting adjustments. DC has the same needs regardless of whether they get a diagnosis or not. We asked for/used adjustments prior to diagnosis.

If you feel attending ASD or SEN events and the events are open to those without a formal diagnosis, then go. We don’t go to many SEN events because the majority of them don’t work for my DC. For example, other DC are often noisier and less predictable and my DC can’t cope with that.

We started pre-diagnosis. We are lucky to have an amazing charity in our community that runs youth clubs and lots of events for autistic children. They very openly state a diagnosis is not needed - they know how hard it can be to even get one! Some of the volunteers even have children who aren’t diagnosed and they aren’t pursuing a diagnosis at this time.

the majority will be the same, if they don’t say that a diagnosis is a requirement, then use them. They will understand getting the diagnosis takes time or isn’t always the right thing to do at this time.

Thanks both. I think because DD's difficulties aren't very pronounced (except at school) sometimes it feels like theses resources aren't 'deserved'.