Signs, assessment and diagnosis

Noticing differences, getting an autism assessment for your child in the UK, and what to do while you wait and after a diagnosis.

What is autism? A plain-English guide for parentsA calm, sourced guide to what autism is and isn't: the spectrum, how common it is, genes, the vaccine and paracetamol myths, and the words used in UK reports.17 minute read Signs of autism in young children, and when to ask for helpWhat autism can look like at different ages, what doesn't rule it out, autism or speech delay, loss of skills, and how to raise concerns with your GP, health visitor or SENCO.12 minute read Waiting for an autism assessment? What you can do nowYou don't have to wait for a diagnosis to help your child. Practical steps for home, nursery or school, money, your referral and your own wellbeing while you wait.17 minute read What happens at a child's autism assessment in the UKFrom the first GP visit to the written report: who assesses your child, what they do, how to prepare you both, and what to check before paying privately.12 minute read Right to Choose for children's autism assessments in England, explainedA neutral guide to Right to Choose for a child's autism assessment in England: how to ask your GP, what to check, and what the 2025 to 2026 pauses mean.8 minute read Just diagnosed: your first 12 weeks after an autism diagnosisA calm, week-by-week plan for the first three months after diagnosis: understanding the report, school support, parent courses, money, telling people and your own wellbeing.13 minute read Telling your child they are autistic, at every ageWhy telling children early, simply and positively tends to go better, with example words for each age and answers to 'Will it go away?'12 minute read