Daughter awaiting assessment for autism

[LondonerWith2]

So I hope I don't offend anyone here but the newer names for the different spectrum types confuses me a little.
My daughters dad has aspergers syndrome, he's highly intelligent but lacks empathy struggles with emotional blocks.

My daughter is 6 and is just the same, highly intelligent but hates any physical contact, says things really matter-of-fact which often offends, she doesn't understand emotional cues from people so often oversteps.

The school have made a referral and say that they beleive she has high functioning autism.

As I'm aware the wait to see a peadiactrician is long and tbe assessment will take a while. Is there anywhere I can go pre-assesment to get support for her?

Thanks so much x

Hypothetically school should provide support pre diagnosis,otherwise apart from checking out the local children's centre for SEN groups and parenting courses and speaking to local autism charities there isn't really any support with or without a diagnosis. Rarely the NHS has OT for sensory issues but most areas won't help with that. You can check if its worth applying for DLA, but that is if you can say she needs an hour extra care per day at least.
My son's autistic and non verbal, and the NHS just offered a leaflet after his diagnosis last month so really i wouldn't expect much from them.

Do double check if you're in England that she can't have a right to choose referral instead, or if your income is below a certain amount caudwell children might help you.

Support in schools is based on needs not diagnosis. The school must make their best endeavours to meet DD’s SEN and make reasonable adjustments, diagnosis or not. They should be providing support now. Are they? Have you spoken to the SENCO?

Look into whether you have a local Autism organisation or sometimes more generic 'children with special needs.' Ours offered playdates and whilst the children played, support for parents and families.

If you Google "your local authority name" plus "local offer" you may find some useful organisations.

This is a bit random, but if you or DC like trains, look up Engine Shed on Facebook.

What does OT mean?
Thanks so much. The school have informally put things in place such as a feelings book (as she doesn't verbally communicate when she's upset) , teacher check ins.

She's also going to have 2 weekly check ins with the SENCO teacher

OT = occupational therapist

Why is the school only providing support informally? I would speak to the SENCO again.

Whys that?
She's been referred for the assessment and they've put the above in place but she doesn't have an ehcp or anything as of yet

Even without an EHCP, the school should be making their best endeavours to meet DD’s SEN rather than just providing support informally. A meeting with the SENCO would enable you to formalise any support and look at additional support that would help.