Possible autism, Dr called appointment scheduled what next?

[MamaBeeeeeeeB]

So back story...
For the last 5 years I've had slight concerns that my DS could be autistic but due to him not having the main traits as a baby (he made eye contact, recognised and responded to his name ect) people were easily able to convince me it was just 'normal boy behaviour'
His school doesnt think he has any learning disabilities as he is great at maths, art and science (subjects he enjoys) however he is behind in english, (reading/writing) and learning with the student who do have disabilities.
I feel like I'm holding back by not having the idea investigated and that a diagnosis is probably very likely which would help him get the help he needs rather than pushed because he's expected to be further ahead.

I have many reasons why e.g
-his fake laugh when others laugh
-his lack of awareness of personal space, his inability to pick up social cues especially when he's making people feel uncomfortable
-his overwhelmingly loud voice that he isn't aware is loud (he gets alot of funny looks in public for this 😔 that upset him)
-his overly emotional responses to almost everything new
-his need to control any game he plays
-the fact that he will happily speak to and hug any random stranger 😅
to name a few...
I'm rambling now sorry.

My real question I guess it what should I expect next now that I've contacted a Dr?
Will the GP just put him forward for an assessment or is he likely to want to speak to the school ect first?

The process varies area to area. It’s impossible to say exactly what will happen in your area. For example, in some areas the school are involved in referrals e.g. by completing a questionnaire. In some areas the referral would be to CAMHS and in others it is to a community neurodevelopmental paediatrician. In some areas you go straight onto the waiting lists and in others there is an initial assessment to ensure you are on the right pathway. There’s so many variables.

Be prepared for the GP to potentially fob you off with “speak to the school” or “let’s review things in 6 months” etc.

Having a list of your concerns written out ready to give/read to the GP would help.

Have you raised the possibility of ASD with the school?

However, a diagnosis is probably very likely which would help him get the help he needs isn’t necessarily so. Support is based on needs, rather than diagnosis. Many DC are diagnosed and promptly discharged. If you feel DS needs more support at school have you considered applying for an EHCNA?

I've spoken to the school before but not actually mentioned the idea just asked their opinion as he is behind in a few subjects and 'in the learning disability set' as worded by his head teacher. However she will repeatedly say that he doesn't have learning disabilities and therefore needs to stop 'playing' around and buckle down.

I have an email draft I'm working on to send to the head tomorrow to explain that I'm planning to speak to his GP about autism but I'm concerned they won't take it seriously as she's repeatedly told me she knowns alot about kids as shes been an educator and mother longer than I've been out of nappies.

We have alot of issues with attendance which is due to (for lack of a better word) 'meltdowns' over going, these include punching, kicking, clinging to door frames ect it also included (what I believe was) an anxiety induced upset stomach at least once a week.

Mention your last paragraph to the GP.

‘The learning disability set’ is appalling language by the HT. For a start I doubt they have enough pupils in the year to have a ‘learning disability set’. A learning disability is typically defined as having an IQ of below 70. DS may not have a learning disability but he could have a learning difficulty (learning disability and learning difficulty aren’t the same thing) and his spiky profile suggests that’s possible.

If DS cannot attend school full time the LA have a statutory duty to provide alternative arrangements. This should begin once it becomes clear DS will miss 15 days. For ongoing conditions the 15 days can be cumulative.

Think the process steps are that the GP decides whether to make a referral to the team that coordinates autism assessments in your area (as a PP says, the GP could suggest watchful waiting for a bit etc).

If they do refer to your local autism team, I think that team gets to decide whether to accept the referral. They might contact school (with your agreement) to gather evidence to determine if an assessment is needed. If they decide to do an assessment, and they don't contact school at that stage, they will contact them as part of the evidence gather prior to the assessment. (Bear in mind waiting lists are long - 2 years plus here).

Your DS sounds distressed about school . If you are facing a lengthy wait for an assessment it might be worth seeing if you can get any support from CAMHS or even a private child psychologist? This might add to your evidence and put the school under a bit more pressure to support your son (plus finding supportive professionals who engage seriously with your questions about your child's needs will keep you sane if you are having to deal with those sorts of attitudes). Good luck.