To not want to be constantly touched!!

[flea101]

8 year old, adhd and autistic, currently not in school. I have had to give up work as he hasn't been able to attend school for 6 months, we are together 24/7. Trouble is he constantly has to be touching me. Sitting on me, climbing on me, hugging me. I am glad he feels so attached to me but I just need some time where I am not being touched! I tell him it is my body and I decide who touches it but he gets upset that I don't want that contact! Any advice?

Do you have any sensory equipment? Has DS had an OT assessment?

If DS is unable to attend school the LA has a duty to ensure he still receives a suitable full-time education. Email the Director of Children’s Services requesting provision under s.19 of the Education Act 1996. On their website, IPSEA has a model letter you can. If the LA refuse, delay or ignore you, email again threatening judicial review. If that doesn’t work you need a pre-action letter which SOSSEN can help with.

Does DS have an EHCP? If so, have you requested an early review? If DS doesn’t already have an EHCP you should request an EHCNA. IPSEA has a model letter for this, too.

Request social care assessments. A carer’s assessment for you and an assessment via the disabled children’s team for DS. Contact has model letters you can use on their website.

This my ds and I find it hard (my sensory profile is quite different from my ds) so I feel for you! You have some great advice already, I think OT help could make a real difference...

I see this as an unaddressed need as explaining personal space etc definitely doesnt help him and I dont want him to suppress how he feels more to understand it and find things that help. So I will start an activity... bouncing on a trampoline/peanut ball, crashing into beanbags or getting outside generally... if its a time I want him to relax I'll use a weighted blanket and give him a massage. Out of sync child and the follow up book are helpful for ideas.