So today DS was diagnosed with "Autistic Spectrum Disorder" What now?

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He's 13.5. It's been a long time coming. I've wanted this since he was 8 (but didn't actually ask for it until the end of last year). He's typical Aspergers, but the word "Autism" sounds a lot more scary for some reason.

Now what the hell do I do with this diagnosis? He is coping reasonably well at school (he goes to a school with a reputation for excellent pastoral care. They claim it's "second to none" and I'm inclined to agree). This hasn't always been the case, but he's finally settled.

The school knew this diagnosis was on the cards, but I'm not sure now what to do with it, what do I ask the school for, if anything?

Sorry, I'm panicking a bit here. I probably do know the answers, and need to talk it though.

I really need to talk about this. DH is just grunting.

OK, I'll just talk through this with myself.

He is on school action plus. Someone told me he should have in IEP because of this, but he doesn't. Should I ask for one?

I'm sorry I don't know the answer to your question, I'm also here looking for advice :) but very happy to listen in the absence of anyone else with more experience at this kind of thing.

I think you would be better coming over to the special needs children board, it gets loads more traffic and is very friendly

re the IEP, if you are on SA or SA+ you are supposed to have an IEP or equivalent if you are in an area where they call it something different

Was it camhs who gave him the dx? Has there been talk of further meetings to decide what strategies to put in place? An Iep is a good idea, you should pop over to special needs: children, you'll get fantastic advice there.

How are you feeling about the dx?

www.mumsnet.com/Talk/special_needs

This link gets far more traffic

Hi there ,
I work with children aged 2 - 18 with special needs. In a professional light your son wouldn't necessarily have to have an IEP if he is on school action plus. If he is coping well with his workload and if he is managing the social side of attending school there isn't a need for one. When you say diagnosis is this just a formal diagnosis or is it a statement of educational needs ??