Ds2 (3yrs) has had a verbal but unofficial dx of ASD since he was assessed just after his 2nd birthday. As you probably already know, the Paed wouldn't put it in writing as he felt ds2 was still young. Confusingly the Paed would talk about ds2 during appointments as though he did have an ASD but there was absolutely nothing in writing.
The SN board consensus a little while ago was that ds2 needed the dx in place ready for when he moved from pre-school to Reception. The CDC and portage staff all agreed with you and made another appointment for ds2 to see the Paed.
We talked about ds2's appalling sleep habits first. I'd hoped it would get better as ds2 increased his hours at pre-school but it has got to the point where he's still wide awake until 2am and waking up every half an hour or so after that. The Paed wrote a prescription for melatonin.
I then asked about ds2 needing a dx. I almost fainted with shock when instead of hesitating and saying that ds2 should be re-assessed etc the Paed just said "Yes. I think it's about time we made it all official. It's pretty obvious he has an autistic spectrum disorder. I'll put it in writing for you."
Obviously there is still that sadness that comes with a dx but on the whole I just feel so relieved.
Thanks again to everyone who advised pushing for the dx.