Understanding autism diagnosis: what parents need to know

1. Recognising the signs of autism

The signs of autism can often be seen in early childhood, typically before the age of 3. However, in some cases, signs may not be recognised until later in childhood. Some common early signs include:

• Social challenges: difficulty in making eye contact, not responding to their name, not engaging in pretend play, or preferring to be alone.
• Communication differences: delayed speech or language development, difficulty in understanding or using language, or repetitive speech (echolalia).
• Repetitive behaviours: repeating movements or activities (such as hand-flapping or lining up toys), strict routines, or distress when routines are disrupted.
• Sensory sensitivities: overreacting or underreacting to sensory stimuli, such as lights, sounds, textures, or smells.

It’s important to note that every child with autism is different, and the severity of these signs can vary. Some children may show only a few of these behaviours, while others may show a wider range of symptoms.

2. The process of autism diagnosis

If you suspect that your child may have autism, the first step is to consult with a healthcare professional, such as your gp or health visitor. Early diagnosis can help your child get the support they need as early as possible, which can make a significant difference in their development. Click here to learn more about our assessment and to book an appointment.

Step 1: initial consultation

During the first appointment, your healthcare provider will ask about your child’s developmental history and behaviours. They may ask about:

• Your child’s communication skills and social interactions.
• Any behavioural concerns or repetitive actions you have noticed.
• How your child responds to changes in routine or environment.

The healthcare provider will also want to know about your family’s medical history, as autism can sometimes run in families.

Step 2: referral to a specialist

If your healthcare provider suspects autism, they may refer you to a paediatrician, a developmental specialist, or a multidisciplinary team for a more in-depth assessment. These specialists will assess your child’s behaviour and development more comprehensively.

Step 3: assessment

The assessment for autism usually involves a range of activities, including:

• Observations: a healthcare professional may observe your child’s behaviour, communication, and interaction with others, often in a structured setting.
• Standardised testing: some standardised tools, such as the autism diagnostic observation schedule (ados), may be used to assess communication, social interaction, and play skills.
• Parent interviews: parents play a key role in the diagnosis process. You’ll be asked detailed questions about your child’s early development, communication, and behaviour.
• Developmental history: the healthcare team will review your child’s medical, family, and developmental history to rule out other potential causes for the behaviours.

This process may take several weeks or even months, as autism is complex and a thorough assessment is required to make an accurate diagnosis.

3. The diagnosis

Once the assessments are complete, the specialist team will discuss the findings with you. If your child is diagnosed with autism, the team will explain the diagnosis in detail, provide guidance on the severity of the condition, and discuss the next steps. Autism is considered a spectrum disorder, meaning that the symptoms and challenges can range from mild to severe, and support needs will vary from child to child.

It’s important to remember that an autism diagnosis does not define your child’s future. Many children with autism lead fulfilling, successful lives with the right support in place.

4. What happens after diagnosis?

An autism diagnosis can bring mixed emotions for parents. It’s normal to feel a range of emotions, from relief in having a name for your child’s challenges, to concern about the future. Here are the next steps that can help:

• Early intervention: early support and intervention can significantly improve a child’s development. This may include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioural therapy, which can help children build communication, social, and daily living skills.
• Individual education plans (ieps): if your child is of school age, they may be eligible for an individualised education plan (iep), which outlines specific learning goals and accommodations to help your child succeed at school.
• Family support: finding support for the whole family can help you navigate the challenges of raising a child with autism. Local support groups, therapy for parents, and specialised organisations can offer emotional support and practical advice.
• Specialist services: depending on the severity of the autism, your child may benefit from specialist services, including behavioural therapy, sensory integration therapy, or autism-specific support in school.

5. Myths and misconceptions about autism

There are many myths and misconceptions about autism, which can contribute to confusion and stigma. It's important to separate fact from fiction. Some common myths include:

• Myth: all children with autism are non-verbal.
  • Fact: while some children with autism may have speech delays, many have the ability to speak and communicate effectively with the right support.
• Myth: autism is caused by bad parenting.
  • Fact: autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that is not caused by parenting style. It is believed to have genetic and environmental factors.
• Myth: children with autism cannot form meaningful relationships.
  • Fact: many children with autism can form close, loving relationships with family, friends, and caregivers. The key is understanding their unique communication needs.

6. Support for parents

Finding support for yourself and your child is vital. As a parent, it’s important to educate yourself about autism, seek advice from professionals, and connect with other families who understand what you’re going through. Numerous organisations, online forums, and local support groups are available to offer guidance and reassurance.

Conclusion

Autism diagnosis can be a life-changing moment for both parents and children. While the process of diagnosis can be lengthy, it’s important to remember that early intervention and support can make a huge difference in a child’s development and quality of life. By working with healthcare professionals and support networks, you can help your child reach their full potential and lead a fulfilling life.

For more information on autism and support services, visit the national autistic society.

Sources:

• National Autistic Society: information and resources for families.
• NHS website: Autism diagnosis and support.

Disclaimer: the information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalised guidance and recommendations.