AUTISM

Autism is a condition which presents as difficulties in flexible social interaction and communication and rigid/repetitive behaviours or interests. As many as 1 in 100 children are affected by Autism. Some people prefer to use terms such as High Functioning Autism, Asperger's Syndrome and Pathological Demand Avoidance.

The medically recognised term for Autism is Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism may be present with other medical conditions as well, therefore an expert evaluation is recommended.

ASSESSMENT

The assessment of Autism includes:

A detailed history of the child’s development and presentation
Medical Examination is very important to rule out medical conditions therefore a paediatrician assessment is necessary
Observation/ Information from more than one setting such as educational setting if applicable or information from other professionals involved

Investigations are not routinely indicated but may be necessary depending on individual presentation

There are a number of Autism specific tools that can be used for assessment. These include but are not limited to

ADOS-2

ADI-R

3Di

CONDITIONS

There are a number of conditions that can co-exist with Autism. The presence of other conditions can sometimes mask the presentation of Autism. These conditions include but not limited to

Global Developmental Delay or Learning Disability
Dyspraxia or Developmental Coordination Disorder
Epilepsy
Chromosomal Disorders and syndromes etc.

Therefore assessment by a medical expert is required to identify them

OTHER CONDITIONS

Children with Autism may also have functional and or mental health and behavioural problems

Functional Problems and Disorders

Eating Disorders such as Avoidant and Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
Urinary Incontinence
Faecal Incontinence
Sleep Disorders

Mental health and Behaviour Problems and Disorder

ADHD
Anxiety and Phobias
Mood Disorders
Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Tics or Tourette Syndrome
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Self-Injurious behaviours

Therefore an expert assessment is recommeneded

MANAGEMENT

There are a number of conditions that can co-exist with Autism. The presence of other conditions can sometimes mask the presentation of Autism. These conditions include but not limited to

Global Developmental Delay or Learning Disability
Dyspraxia or Developmental Coordination Disorder
Epilepsy
Chromosomal Disorders and syndromes etc.

Therefore assessment by a medical expert is required to identify them

BOOK THE RIGHT ASSESSMENT

Supporting a child or young person with Autism is a joint responsibility of all those involved with them.

ROLE OF HEALTH

Establish Accurate Diagnosis in a timely manner

Identification of other conditions that may be associated with Autism

Management of conditions such as ADHD, Sleep Difficulties and Aggression

Management and advice on sensory and co-ordination issues

Advice and support parents and other professionals

Contribute to Education Health and Care Plan Assessment etc

ROLE OF EDUCATION

According to the Special Education Needs and Disability Code of practice, education settings should make reasonable adjustment for Children and Young people with Autism.

Autism Education Trust provides a rich source of information advice and support for schools and educational authorities.

ROLE OF SOCIAL CARE

There are a range of benefits that may be available to families with children who have a diagnosis of Autism such as Disability Living Allowance, Carers Allowance etc.

Each local authority publishes their Local Offer that helps parents navigate through the services available locally for children and young people with Autism and other Special Education Needs and Disability