Signs
Read through the common signs by age. You don't need to tick everything — most autistic children show a handful, not a whole list.
I think my child may be autistic
Nothing here will tell you whether your child is autistic — only an assessment can do that. What this journey can do is take the next steps off your shoulders and put them in order.
Most families work through this over weeks and months, not days. There is no rush.
Referral
What to say at the GP, what they need to hear, and how to push back if you're told to wait and see.
What usually happens · Some GPs refer on the first visit. Some don't. Bringing two weeks of written observations changes the conversation.
Waiting
Waiting lists are long. There is real, useful work you can do in the meantime — for school, for benefits, and for your child's regulation.
What usually happens · NHS waits in many areas are 18 months to 4+ years. This is not a reason to do nothing.
Assessment routes
The three realistic routes to assessment, their costs, their wait times, and what each one actually involves.
Nursery / school
Schools and nurseries do not need a diagnosis to put SEN support in place. Here is what to ask for now.
DLA
Disability Living Allowance is awarded based on the care your child needs — not on a label. The phone call is the most important step.
What usually happens · The claim is backdated to the day you phone, not the day you return the form. Call 0800 121 4600.
Sensory support
Before buying any sensory kit, work out your child's profile. Most overwhelm at home comes from lighting, noise, or transitions — not from missing equipment.