Published on 12, July, 2020
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.
So sweet of a mom who takes notice of all the ways her kid is special and loves him and wants the best for him! I know it should go without saying but sometimes it isn't so.
From the kid's perspective, I 'll only say the diagnosis itself isn't whats important. It will help, so I do suggest investing in it. But all that really matters is letting your child be the person he wants to be. It matters that you don't judge, don't control, and let the child be free to stim or be expressive. Notice what he wants and what he enjoys and give him what he needs.
I am in my 30s and undiagnosed and all I really wish for is not that my mom had dragged me to doctors when yound, but that she had noticed me more. That's all.
Good luck to you and your boy!
What a lovely response thank you so much, I feel like knowing him is the most important thing and i’ll try to continue to do that and help him feel confident to be who he is, huge thank you from me and my boy