Please or to access all these features

SN teens and young adults

Here are some suggested organisations that offer expert advice on SN.

Support groups teenager

6 replies

Huffalumps · 15/07/2024 12:20

My 13 DS is dyspraxic with many red flags for asd. Life at home is regular so there is little challenge. At school that is different. He is notable and noticed in class for his, let's say, with quirky traits. So social life is tricky for him. Very little natural ability to make small talk, engage friends etc. This does and will continue to challenge him, likely throughout his life. In addition there are times of heightened anxiety around unpredictability. For example school has reworked the day so he doesn't know where to go. Cue much upset yesterday and this morning.

My question is what groups exist to support teens like mine? Is there anything out there? WWYD? I've contacted the school just now so waiting to see what they suggest. I see this as a crucial step in his development. Remember going to uni and negotiating the unknown? Or interviews? These things are hard but we get through them. My DS won't if I don't start the ball rolling on developing this side of him: independence, ability to adapt to change, resilience....

OP posts:
Huffalumps · 16/07/2024 10:01

Bump anyone?

OP posts:
BrumToTheRescue · 16/07/2024 13:31

Some areas have a youth group for DC with disabilities. Also, look at your LA’s local offer.

Would DS join extra-curricular clubs?

Does DS have an EHCP? If so, that should look at preparation for adulthood from the Y9 review. It can also include OT, which can help with independence and social interaction.

Huffalumps · 17/07/2024 08:31

No EHCP. Thanks for your response. I'm signed up to some training the LA offer but it's for parents only or adults with ASD, but not teens unfortunately. I just don't think there's much out there...

OP posts:
BrumToTheRescue · 17/07/2024 10:54

Look what else is available via your local offer. You could also request a social care assessment with the aim of getting a PA who could help DS socialise/interact.

Have you thought about requesting an EHCNA?

Huffalumps · 17/07/2024 13:25

I haven't thought about a needs assessment. Wouldn't the sendco have suggested it if she thought it useful? Perhaps I'm being naive. Up until now, things have been ticking along ok other than minor adjustments at school. I just feel more recently these social barriers are becoming more...salient.

OP posts:
BrumToTheRescue · 17/07/2024 14:56

Schools don’t always mention an EHCNA, even when an EHCP is needed. EHCPs are about more than academic ability. Social communication and interaction difficulties, anxiety and preparation for adulthood are also considerations.

New posts on this thread. Refresh page
Swipe left for the next trending thread