Hi,
I have 3 children, 10, 7 and 6. My 7 year old boy has autism. He was diagnosed early and has had effective intervention, meaning he copes well at primary school with support. I am hoping he will be statemented next year, as the school has promised to start the process when he is in year 3.
I have started to think about secondary education. I'm very concerned about this, as I think he could have a very tough time in a mainstream school. I know he has to learn to get by in the real world, but I think secondary school is a particularly cruel place and I don't know if he needs to go through such an experience to cope with real life. He is very bright and loves to learn, especially in numeracy and science. I think a special school for mild learning difficulties could enhance his learning and he would feel safer.
Also, I think it would be unfair on my other 2 children to have the worry of his wellbeing while they are tackling their own issues at secondary school. I know it's a few years off, but I'm constantly thinking about it. I don't know if the final choice would even be mine.
I'd love to hear from anyone who has knowledge, experience or advice in this area. I haven't met another parent of an autistic child and it's been a lonely journey so far.
