Hi
I'm not sure what to say about myself in general, so here goes... 
I am the mum of a lovely little boy who has suspected ASD; he is 3. He is due his ADOS assessment on Wednesday 14th May. I know what it entails, but I am still so very nervous about it.
I work within an autism accredited school; in fact the school I work in is only for children and young people on the autistic spectrum, so I have a wealth of knowledge (but still learning).
A little background...
I began to notice things weren't 'quite right' with my little boy when he was nearing 12 months old. He wouldn't point, wave or make simple gestures. He gave eye contact, but was generally disinterested in his surroundings or others, unless it spun around/had wheels. I contacted his HV a number of times giving my suspicions/ concerns, but was told he would 'catch up'. I waited 6 months (although still, deep down, not happy). I contacted her again including his GP expressing my concerns of him not saying many single words with meaning or even calling me 'mama' or his dad 'dada'. They sent him for a hearing test. They found nothing. It was only until he went to nursery (I couldn't afford it until he was 2) That within 3 weeks of him being there, they called me in with their suspicions. Needless to say, I cried with relief that it wasn't me and I wasn't going mad or 'finding fault' because of my profession. They got in contact with the early years department and had an assessor come down to see him; they suspected ASD and told me to see my GP to get a referral to a Paediatrician. Ever since then, he has appointments with SaLT, 2 different paediatricians, had more hearing tests, blood tests (which came back with nothing) and been to Social communication groups. He is making some progress and is completely toilet trained too. He does communicate with guiding to what he wants (no makaton, and I have asked for PECs a number of times, but been told he can say a few words, so he doesn't need it, although in my experience, PECs can help reinforce language), he will play games, and likes others to be with him, plus he makes a fuss of new people or when he hasn't seen you for a while).
He is the most lovable little boy, giving lots of hugs and kisses, is cheeky and mischievous. He has his occassional melt down/tantrum, but who doesn't. I am worried about the future and what the outcome of next Wednesday will be, or the meeting pencilled in for July to determine what they think!? I have come on here to gain insight from others and to talk with others whose lives are touched by those with ASD.
So Hello everyone xxxx