Published on 12, July, 2020
Ok. Where to start here. We've just had a formal diagnosis today that our son Ethan is autistic. We were expecting it as he's non verbal but it's still hit us a little emotionally.
We've come on here to try and find out "what happens next" and how we can help Ethan. Neither of us have experienced autism in our families before so have no previous knowledge to draw on. Speech and Language are involved but are there resources he/we can access to try and progress this?
And any nappy training tips for someone that doesn't find being wet (or worse) would be greatly appreciated.
We're Doncaster based. We're just trying to get our son the best start we can give him.
Doncaster will have autism groups that you can join. Depending on which area of Doncaster you live in there will also be triages in our libraries e.g. Conisbrough/Town Moor etc etc. You can find which libraries have these by contacting Doncaster Council. Ask at these areas how you can access autism support groups and/or any child based activities. Whoever diagnosed your son should give you advice on what is available in the local area and as I do not know the age of your son do not know which educational establishments you may already be accessing. If in school seek an echp. Doncaster Council have SMILE which will help with activities and the ASCETS team provide parental workshops that will help you. Phone 0753645592 or contact das@doncastercarers.org.uk or if you are on Facebook search for Doncaster Autism Services.Doncaster also has a continence service for children aged 4-19. as well as a long term continence team. It may be best for you to go online to doncaster.gov.uk and search for the local offer for Health and Social Care. Please remember that our autism makes us vulnerable so sharing of your child's details is best done through the Doncaster services. You are blessed to live in an area where there is a greater wealth of autism support than in some other areas of the country. Ask questions of those who diagnose and request that they signpost you to support. Remember also that you can go to your GP and ask to be signposted to support for your son/parental support for you and information about local groups. If you want to travel outside of your area Sheffield is a good place to find autism support groups. I wish you well in your search. Most of all please remember that the road forward may at times seem hard. In those hard times remember the wealth of positives that autism also brings and that for your son his journey stated with being born into a family that will love and keep him safe forever. For you this may be the start of your autism journey. For your son he is blessed with you. Take care. There is support our there in the Doncaster services and community.