I think my child is autistic - overwhelmed mum

My son is almost 5 years old and I believe that he is autistic. Although i have recognised traits for some time some of his traits were put down to covid and his lack of contact with people during that time. While he does not have a formal diagnosis, over the past year I have began to keep a note of traits as I see them and feel I notice more all the time. 

He is a very happy boy and does not so far seem to display autistic meltdowns. However he starts primary school in August and I am consumed by the want to support him and to try and help him navigate  this to the best of my ability. Although I have very supportive family i am struggling to know who best to speak to for advice for both him and myself and my head is filled with questions. For example I am keen to be as proactive as possible however most family i have spoken too seem to suggest wait and see. I would like some advice on how valuable a formal diagnosis would be at this stage? Should I wait to see if any problems arise when he gets to school and try and deal with them as they occur or should i try and intervene early trying to avoid problems before they occur? I suppose every parent hates the thought of their child struggling and either being unaware or not knowing how best to help them. Some days I just feel very overwhelmed by it all and would just love to talk to someone to help put me on the right track. A friend suggested i find an online forum so here I am.

Parents
  • First of all - it’s possible he might be ok when he starts school. Has he been to nursery at all? How does he get on with other children? Does he have any friends? 
    I’d look at the evidence you have at this point of how he gets on in group settings. If there have been difficulties in this area then I’d do all the research you can regarding autism so that you will very informed and aware and can spot any issues if they arise. I would only go to the GP now if your son is already having problems in some way - because a gp can’t address anything that isn’t currently happening. 
    Even if you go to the GP tomorrow I doubt you’d get any kind of diagnosis before your son starts school in September. 

Reply
  • First of all - it’s possible he might be ok when he starts school. Has he been to nursery at all? How does he get on with other children? Does he have any friends? 
    I’d look at the evidence you have at this point of how he gets on in group settings. If there have been difficulties in this area then I’d do all the research you can regarding autism so that you will very informed and aware and can spot any issues if they arise. I would only go to the GP now if your son is already having problems in some way - because a gp can’t address anything that isn’t currently happening. 
    Even if you go to the GP tomorrow I doubt you’d get any kind of diagnosis before your son starts school in September. 

Children
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