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Here you'll find advice from parents and teachers on special needs education.

Original poster

Do they suspect autism

5 replies

HereComesSimon1 · 27/05/2024 12:25

Hi everyone. My DS turned 3 in February and from him being around 18 months I’ve had concerns about his development. He has only just started to say words and understand instructions so a part of me is wondering if he is delayed or if he has autism. Either way, he has made huge progress and is continuing to do so.

I have recently started having meetings with the senco at his nursery. They are currently going through a ehcp process for him. They haven’t directly mentioned autism and I haven't asked I know they can’t give me a definite answer. Does this sound like they suspect autism though?

We had a SALT appointment last year and they referred us to more than words course which we completed in March.

The senco are fab and are doing so much for him but it’s a lot to take in!

OP posts:
BrumToTheRescue · 27/05/2024 13:13

The nursery requesting an EHCNA doesn’t necessarily mean they suspect ASD. EHCPs are for all types of SEN. It is brilliant the nursery is being supportive and proactive.

If you suspect ASD, has DS been referred for an autism assessment?

OlderGlaswegianLivingInDevon · 27/05/2024 13:15

Ask them what they are hoping for with the EHCP.

takemeawayagain · 27/05/2024 13:25

Does he have any autistic traits? Why not just ask them straight out if they suspect autism. If so they might be able to get someone in from SEND to observe him which could help his assessment. It's great that they're doing so much but if he is possibly autistic then it would be good to get him on the waiting list for assessment asap. They might not just want to volunteer the information as they are not qualified, but if you ask they might say it's a possibility they've considered.

Original poster
HereComesSimon1 · 27/05/2024 13:45

Thank you, I’ll ask them some of the things you’ve mentioned.

He hasn’t been referred for an assessment and it’s not something they’ve mentioned so maybe I’ll ask about that too.

The things I’ve noticed are that he’s majorly behind on speech, only understands a handful of things, can lash out but nursery think it’s because he’s frustrated.

OP posts:
BrumToTheRescue · 27/05/2024 14:46

If you suspect autism you should request a referral for assessment. Have you spoken to the GP &/or HV?

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