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Looking for advice - Social communication pathway

NAS82394

Hi 

Just wondering if anyone has had any experience with the social communication pathway for ASD support/ diagnosis? 

I have posted previously as my son is 2.5, nonverbal and shows many signs of autism but we have been denied a referral due to him hitting other development milestones such as walking. My Health visitor is trying desperately to get him/us support and the last option left to us at this age is this new social communication pathway. 

I am also looking for some advice as he has recently started hitting his head on the floor/ wall/me - i think this is out of frustration as he is unable to communicate with us but any advice on how best to distract/stop him from doing this would be greatly appreciated. It's heart-breaking to watch my little boy hurt himself and not be able to communicate with him. 

  • I don't know about the pathway but I would suggest using pictures of things he might want so that he can indicate his desires and reduce his frustration. It might take him a while to learn how to use them, but it can be much easier than talking or signing for some. You could also use pictures to reinforce the things you want from him to help him understand.

  • Hello

    I'm sorry to hear that you're going through a difficult time with your son. You may like to have a look at the following information from the NAS on how you may be able to support him with his communication development: https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/communication/understanding-and-developing-communication#H3_6

    I hope this helps,

    ChloeMod

  • Hi there.  I can only imagine how hard it is to watch your child possibly hurting themselves in (possibly) frustration.

    I'm no expert on this field, but I do understand a bit about non-verbal communication.  Whilst you try together to build verbal communication, don't forget that we all communicate by a plethora of other means too.  I am quite verbose but my preferred means of communication with other souls is non-verbal ie I never verbally greet my best friend - it isn't unusual for us just to meet and not speak for a few minutes.....but we will smile, maybe have a pat on the back or a hand shake and look around some.  Breathing tells you a lot.

    If you watch very carefully, listen very carefully, are very mindful of your own micro-gestural projections, it can be amazing how much of a two-way conversation can be had without the need for words.  This is my experience anyway.  I'm sure you know this and have tried - but don't give up on these other means because you are thinking that words are all that counts.

    I do hope that you find some comfort together soon.

    All the best.