We've got a diagnosis!

[twolittlemonkeys]

Admittedly it's no surprise, but DS1 (5) was finally diagnosed with Aspergers yesterday. I can't explain how I feel, partly sad, partly relieved, partly excited. It confirms suspicions I've had since he was 2. I think DH is in shock in some ways - he's always played down the problems, but went on a school trip on Tuesday and was shocked that DS didn't interact with any of the other children (I think he assumed I was exaggerating a lot of the time) but for the first time, DH has started looking on websites - he was on the NAS one yesterday. I may yet convince him to read a book on it! I don't know what the next step is - I think we will probably need to push for a statement and have no idea how to go about that.

Anyway I will be spending more time on this section of MN now that we know what we're dealing with. I would be very grateful for any recommendations you knowledgeable people have/ reading suggestions/ tips on statements etc. I have a lot to learn.

Hi twolittlemonkeys,

Re the statement, have a look at IPSEA's website www.ipsea.org.uk. There are model letters on there you can use. Would send off your letter to the LEA asap.

You need to write to the Chief Education Officer at your LEA (the council will tell you this person's name) and give them six weeks to reply (note that date on your calendar). If they say no to assessment (this often happens) you can appeal their decision.

Hi twolittlemonkeys, getting a dx is a real milestone. Do give yourself some time to get used to it and for the implications to start to sink in. I think a mixture of emotions is very normal.

It's also really good that your DH is beginning to take the dx on board too -- often it does seem that dads are slower or more resistant. I think the NAS site is a mine of good information, I especially liked their section on advice for grandparents.

Welcome to this board, do keep posting! There's lots of brilliant advice and support on here, although do be aware that some people are very strong advocates of particular approaches. Just take your time. It might be better to take stock of where you are and give yourself time to think about what you think would really help your DS at school before jumping in the with the statement (I don't mean wait around for years, but maybe think about it a little bit, just so you get your bearings).

I agree with what niminypiminy says - take your time and let it sink in first. DS2 has just been diagnosed with aspergers - he's 7 and although I think I knew from when he was about 3, it's still a shock when you are told it is definite. I remember the first time I actually had to say out loud "DS has Aspergers" when I was signing him up for an activity group - I got off the phone and burst into tears

The NAS website is very good, there are lots of free leaflets you can order (one for every relative ), and check if your local area has any support groups or charities - I've just found a really good one where we are and it is so helpful to have someone to talk to and to know that you are not alone.