Autism

[lynbrown]

Our 4 yo grandson has autism and can scarcely speak and will struggle in school. What can we do to understand his condition? Whats the best organisation to join, there are a few online, all no doubt good.

[Mamyalynne]

Lyn , that is a huge question - the Autistic Spectrum is so wide and varied there is no one understanding that fits all.


In my case (also as a Grandparent) I followed the lead of their parents as they went through the diagnosis process and attended any meetings I was allowed to - whilst still treating them as the children they are (and I love) I have had to learn different techniques and what triggers to watch for.

For Support Groups, I would check locally first unless you simply want the anonymity of a large online group.

[sherrardk]

Try the Parent Partnersip, I can't sing their praises enough. Each branch is 'local' to you and know what's available in your area, who to speak to, etc. I found them invaluable when I had to get thing 2 assessed for his 'severe speech impairment' (he couldn't speak at all). Ring them tomorrow, they are brilliant. Good luck.

[Mamyalynne]

Hopefully his parents have also put in place the start of an application for Special Needs, this will ensure he gets the best help possible to stay in mainstream school.

[Mamyalynne]

Good call Sherr -local is best if you can find it.

[sherrardk]

They've changed their name - http://www.iassnetwork.org.uk/about-us/

[lynbrown]

Thanks all, I should have said we live in Scotland and it might be different here. Thanks for kind wishes, we do let the parents point the way but we would maybe like to join a group that does fund raising etc.

[VHG]

Also get the parents to register with their local Carers Centre.

They will get help and advice from the Carers Centre who may well have a specialist in learning disabilities working for them.

Also as a carer they may be able to get certain benefits (the Carers Centre will advise) and also maybe free swimming lessons and that sort of thing (this can vary round the country).

My son has dyspraxia (and mild Autism) and my wife is registered as the carer so she can get in free when going to the cinema or theatre with him and also travels free when they go on a train together (he has a disabled persons railcard).