ASD diagnosis - so now what?

[seriouscaffeineaddict]

Been lurking for a while, whilst suspecting the above for DSS. Today it was confirmed as ASD/Aspergers. What do we do now? Is it worth pushing for a statement in the light of the funding cuts? He is at the mild end of the spectrum, so I'm worried that all a statement would achieve, if we got it, would be to put financial pressure on the school without giving them any support from the LA. Primary school has been incredibly supportive, so I wouldn't want to jeopardise that. On the other hand, I don't want him to miss out on any extra help that we might be able to get for him. Have noted that Mumsnetters have a wealth of experience - any thoughts?

imho go and speak to the head and / or senco, to see whether the process would be helpful to them. Historically, statemented children are entitled to some funding, so in theory this would help the school. However, unless there's a definite "educational need" then a statement wouldn't necessarily be the way to go. By discussing it with them and getting the current state of affairs, at the very least they would see that you want to support them in working with your son, not give them more pressure. If your ds does need support, through transitions or at break times etc, then also discuss this.

Hoping some more experienced parents can turn up to advise you soon:)
I'm a specialist ASD teacher, and have a ds who's about to be diagnosed, more than likely on the spectrum, so will continue to watch this thread as I'm in a similar position...

You don't necessarily need (or get) a statement for ASD.

Tell us some more about how his ASD affects him at school.....

You only need a statement if school aren't meeting his needs. My DS has mild Aspergers, and school are fully meeting is needs without any statement.

So the big question is what extra do you think school need to be doing for him?

Thanks for the responses. School is fabulous. He has had two exclusions, both for violence which could have resulted (but fortunately didn't) in serious injury to staff. School didn't permanently exclude and want to help and support, but teacher said that in all honesty what they need (but can't afford full time)is a TA. He is continually disruptive in class, which if left unchecked can gradually descend into violence. The rest of the class is probably suffering more than ds due to the time spent by teacher in preventing an outburst. So the school appear to be meeting his needs but at the expense of the rest of the class. That's not fair for anyone and I am concerned that they can't continue doing that. Equally, if he can't get on with his work and concentrate without that attention, he must have an "educational need" for that support, I guess. They have said recently that he is improving, but bitter experience suggests that he will have a positive patch, lull us all into a false sense of security and then blow big time. We will of course discuss with HT, but it's useful to get independent views so thanks v much both of you.

If school say he needs a TA then why on earth don't they apply for a statement? Bleeding staggering.

Yes, if he needs a TA then you should apply for a statement. You dont' need a dx for a statement. Nor do you need to be academically behind. Get on to it tomorrow :)

It is probably easier to access other help with a statement. How about OT? My ds was violent in class last year and then they found out he had severe sensory processing difficulties and the measures the school had in place were just aggravating the difficulties ie getting him to remove his hands when he tried to cover his ears etc. Voilence has decreased since OT programme put into place.

It is also much more difficult to exclude a child with SEN.

what indigo said

Also should be relatively easier to get statement if 1. school are supportive and 2. you want to stay at same school.

You can get free copy of sen code of practice - search for details on directgov site - which gives criteria for assessment for statement as in brief severe and complex needs which cannot be catered for at current level of support.

good luck.

Serious

I would go all out to obtain a statement for your son asap. As he progresses further up the school system as well he may find things more difficult, particularly when he reaches secondary school. Schools too can sit on such apps for ages so you are also better off making the request to the LEA yourself.

"I'm worried that all a statement would achieve, if we got it, would be to put financial pressure on the school without giving them any support from the LA"

This would not happen, LEA will fund the statement from their own pot; it won't affect the school financially, infact it will enable them to support your son more effectively. What they are doing at present is not fully effective.

Statements are not just for educational needs, they are for social and communication needs as well. If he is having difficulties at school because of being on the autistic spectrum it does often go onto affect learning in class because his additional needs are not being met.

IPSEA's website has model letters you can use re statement and their website is well worth a read anyway.

www.ipsea.org.uk

You are his best - and only - advocate. Never forget that.

Thank you all for your responses. School are already taking action now they have that magic diagnosis, but will follow up those links so we know what to expect and can make sure it's all happening. Thanks again.

How old is he?

When they are young, we all think their ASD is mild. This is because they are closer to their peers in terms of development.

However, as they get older, if they do not get appropriate intervetion (and sometimes when they do) the gap will widen and they will no longer be mild iyswim.

Do you think he needs extra help? Where do you see him in 2-3 years time? What can be done now to help him prepare for it? What will his peers be doing that he should also be doing?

So sorry about your dx btw.