2y8mo suspected autism - advice

[SErunner]

Hello. Our daughter's nursery have raised concerns in recent months regarding her behaviour. At a meeting this week they have said they suspect autism and suggested we start the process of referral for assessment. The NHS wait time is 2 years here. She will start school in Sept 25.

I don't disagree with any of their observations which relate to social/emotional development. On paper developmentally in other ways she is doing very well (they commented she is extremely capable cognitively, advanced with her communication, very independent physically). What I don't know is how much the behaviours they/we are concerned about are different to routine toddler behaviour, but I am happy to trust their judgement on this. They are obviously seeing something outside the 'norm'.

We are in the fortunate position where we could go private for assessment but I don't know when would be best to do this. Is it worth leaving it another 12 months age wise, but ensuring it's complete pre starting school? Would a diagnosis be more accurate/useful in terms of recommendations if she is a bit older? If an assessment does show she has autism, what then?

In the meantime I would love signposting to any good resources for supporting children her age (particularly girls) with suspected autism. As mentioned above, she is high functioning in many ways and doesn't present with things like speech delay, extreme meltdowns, poor sleep, etc. I am finding a lot of what I'm reading online is either about older children or doesn't really 'fit' in terms of how she is.

And help/advice/wisdom appreciated. Thank you.

Not all areas have early years inclusion funding for 2 year olds. Some LAs have it for 2 year olds, but not all LAs. They only have to offer it for 3&4 year olds.

Thanks @Sunshineclouds11. HV can't do the referral unfortunately and didn't offer anything other than specific support for potty training (which were struggling with and I think will continue to find tricky as she is terrified of going in anything other than a nappy - we've just left it for now). We don't have a named health visitor, I've never seen the same one twice. I suppose I can go back to them but they didn't sound like they'd be able to offer anything useful.

I have a phonecall the week after next with our GP to discuss. He is usually very good.

Thank you for the comments about the EHCP, I have a meeting next week with nursery again and will talk through your points with them.

I think we have decided to get her assessed privately as the 2.5 yr NHS wait will take her way past starting school. I've started contacting places who will assess from 3 onwards and think we will look to do this sometime in the autumn. I've also found some books that seem more relevant to her presentation and have found these interesting. Im feeling a bit less overwhelmed and not worried as such, just keen to do what's best for her. Thank you all for your advice, much appreciated.