Information for Parents and Caregivers
A guide to the Autism Spectrum
What is Autism Spectrum (AS)?
AS is a wide ranging condition which includes autism, atypical autism and Asperger’s
syndrome. It is a spectrum condition which means that people may share certain difficulties
in addition to being affected in different ways. AS affects how a person communicates and
relates to other people and affects how they make sense of the world around them.
AS is more common than people think – approximately 700,000 people may have autism, or more
than 1 in 100 in the population (The National Autistic Society).
What do Parent/Carers Say?
“Autism is not a disability, it's a different ability”.
If a parent's job is to prepare the child for the world, then the parent of an autistic child
will prepare the world for the child”.
Diagnosis
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A diagnosis of AS is given when difficulties are identified in three core areas: Communication,
Social Interaction and Flexibility of Thought and Behaviour. Some children also experience
sensory difficulties.
You, your partner and wider family may experience different emotions regarding the diagnosis.
You may feel a range of emotions such as isolation, grief, anger, relief or sadness.
Diagnosis is not a cure; it is a signpost to information, advice and support.
Top Tips
Communication can be difficult for children with AS. The way you communicate can help your child
understand and process information. Simplify your language, keeping your facial expressions and
gestures clear and match them to the words you are saying.
Social interaction can be different for children with AS; they may not enjoy the close proximity of
others. Consider social demands and allow your child time to become used to new situations and
people. Allow them time in a quiet place or with a favourite object.
Behaviour can often be a challenge but can be managed by helping your child understand what is
expected by having clear, predictable routines.
Walsall has published a “local offer” of provision available to
children with SEN and Disabilities. For information about universal,
targeted and specialist services available in Walsall call 01922
653383 or visit:
www.mywalsall.org/walsall-send-local-offer
Frequently Asked Questions
Who do I contact at school for support?
Not all children/young people with AS have special educational needs. If your child does have
difficulties in school with learning and/or social, emotional, behavioural difficulties the person to
talk to is the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (known as a SENCo).
What is a Local Offer?
The school will have a Local Offer which outlines the type of support it offers for children with
extra needs. Most children/young people with special needs are supported through the school’s
Local Offer.
How will my child’s needs be met?
Occasionally children and young people need support over and above that which the school can
provide. This may include the involvement of outside agencies. All assessment needs are done
over a period of time and schools are encouraged to follow assess, plan, do, review cycles.
Parents and young people should be fully involved in regular reviews.
Will my child need an Education Health Care Plan (EHCP)?
EHCP’s are for children/young people from 0-25 years of age where additional needs are
identified which may require a more formal assessment. A request for such an assessment from
the local authority may lead to an EHCP or a Provision Plan. These Plans are reviewed each
year to see if the support your child/young person is getting is at the correct level.
Support available
Here are some of the people and organisations which can give you more information and support.
Local Information and support
Children’s Disability Team
01922 654634
Child Development Centre
01922 605800
Child & Adolescent Mental Health (CAMHS)
01922 607400
Educational Psychology Service
01922 686375
Family Information Service
01922 653383
Information, Advice & Support Service (SEND)
formally Walsall Parent Partnership
01922 650330
School Health Advisors
01922 423349
Walsall Speech and Language Therapy
01922 650400
Walsall Welfare Rights
01922 627247
Regional and National Information
Autism West Midlands Tel: 0303 0300 111
Website: www.autismwestmidlands.org.uk
National Autistic Society Tel: 020 7833 2299
Website: www.autism.org.uk