Hi,
I am new to this board. Our son was diagnosed with ASD in July and consequently with a genetic disorder which explains his ASD. He started reception this September and he is doing quite well. The main issue at school at the moment is his communication and social skills. He doesn't know how to communicate with his peers. He likes being with other children and he plays alongside them. He receives OT every day and two very short sessions a week with a SEN assistant on playing with other kids.
We want to apply for a statement for him in the new year as now we are waiting for his assesment by the educational psychologist. The SENCO warned me that we might not get a statement as he doesn't have disruptive behaviour but this is something we are going to fight for as he might not be agressive but still has learning and social skills difficulties.
My husband and I decided that we'll stretch our finances and we'll try to get some self-funded help for him at school to improve his social and communication skills until he gets the statement (if!) but we are lost as to what is the best way to help him.
We looked into ABA with the view that we could get someone to work with him at school for a few hours and we'll work with him at home but it's way too expensive. We'll need around a grant per month to do this!
What are the options? Shall we ask an independent SLT to do some work with him at school? Does anyone know how much they charge per hour? Shall we get a psychology student that has some experience? Has anyone else done something similar before?
I am really sorry about all the questions. It's just that we are really stressed about him falling behind at school, not being able to have friends and not improving his communication because he isn't not disruptive.
Many thanks
CM
