EP will see DD at nursery next week. what to expect?

[chocjunkie]

the EP will see DD (3.8 with severe s&l delay/disorder and loads of autistic traits though no formal dx) at her (MS) nursery next week.

He will spent time with DD (SENCO was not sure if he would also undertake a formal assessment). afterwards, the EP will meet me.

what can I expect? due to DD's s&l difficulties, we don't really know where she is cognitively (though I am pretty sure she is delayed). we will have to apply for a reception place by early January and not even sure if we should go for MS or SS. I am pretty determined to get her statemented in any case.

what could I reasonably expect from the EP appointment?

thank you

My DD (also 3.8, severe s+l delay and some autistic traits though no dx) saw the EP at the beginnning of September. She spent the morning observing DD in her MS classroom, tried some interaction (table top games etc) with her and spoke to the nursery staff for their input. She wrote a long report which we later got a copy of. DH and I then had a meeting with her and headteacher to discuss. Not sure what area you're in as all are different, but the EP recommended there and then that DD be put forward for a place at an Observation and Assessment Unit within a nearby MS school. The unit specialises in children with speech and lang delays/ disorders but also have children there with dx of ASD and so have experience in this area.

I should say that though this was our expectation and what we hoped it still came as hell of a shock for an 'outsider' to tell us that DD needed a lot more help in a specialist unit. Despite everything pointing otherwise I still hoped that she could stay in MS school, but at the end of the day I know we are doing the best for DD. Guess Im just saying prepare yourself mentally and make a list of any questions you may have so you dont forget in the moment to ask them.

Good Luck and remember that anything they advise will be in the bset interests of your DD.