Statementing

I have two sons both with ASD now in their teens.  Both now have statements, but it wasn't easy.  I would like to add that not only do you have to consider what your child needs now but more importantly what he will been in the future.  Secondary schools can be very daunting for them.  Consider how he will cope with crowds, does he need to leave a few minutes earlier to get to next lesson.  Homework - would he benefit from someone checking his understanding.  Lunchtime : where will he go for lunch.  Exams - will he need extra time / breaks.  Would your child benefit from having someone take notes for him.  What about PE -  is your child okay with getting changed.  

Also remember statements are not set in stone.  They are reviewed and can be amended.   

I would also talk to the secondary school you wish to send your child and find out what they have found works for their students.  Most schools have a learning support department and if you can include them in the process I think it can help. if your child has a longterm goal, say to stay on and do A levels it might be useful mentioning that.  

Also if you don't manage to get a statement, there are still many things the school may be able to do to help your child.  My eldest, now in VIth form is a whizz at maths (he has aspergers).  He volunteers at lunchtime in the learning support dept to help others with ASD who are  struggling with their studies and now has his only little fan club.  If an LSA is free they quite often are reassigned to those needing support who don't have statements, so its good to be on their radar.

Hope this helps.

I have two sons both with ASD now in their teens.  Both now have statements, but it wasn't easy.  I would like to add that not only do you have to consider what your child needs now but more importantly what he will been in the future.  Secondary schools can be very daunting for them.  Consider how he will cope with crowds, does he need to leave a few minutes earlier to get to next lesson.  Homework - would he benefit from someone checking his understanding.  Lunchtime : where will he go for lunch.  Exams - will he need extra time / breaks.  Would your child benefit from having someone take notes for him.  What about PE -  is your child okay with getting changed.  

Also remember statements are not set in stone.  They are reviewed and can be amended.   

I would also talk to the secondary school you wish to send your child and find out what they have found works for their students.  Most schools have a learning support department and if you can include them in the process I think it can help. if your child has a longterm goal, say to stay on and do A levels it might be useful mentioning that.  

Also if you don't manage to get a statement, there are still many things the school may be able to do to help your child.  My eldest, now in VIth form is a whizz at maths (he has aspergers).  He volunteers at lunchtime in the learning support dept to help others with ASD who are  struggling with their studies and now has his only little fan club.  If an LSA is free they quite often are reassigned to those needing support who don't have statements, so its good to be on their radar.

Hope this helps.