What is the cause of autism? Expand There have been many theories around autism that have come and gone, or moved on. But some of these theories have become ingrained in our cultural and professional way of thinking and, in turn, reinforced notions that autism has a ‘cause’ and can, therefore, be cured. In actual fact, autism is ‘caused’ by hundreds of different genes working together, is genetic, and becoming more widely accepted as heritable.
How does autism affect people? Expand In essence, an autistic person will see, process and understand the world in a different way from someone who isn’t autistic, for all of their life. While there may be some commonalities between autistic people - such as finding it difficult to be in or read social situations - it's important to remember that an autistic person is still a person and will therefore have their own personality, as well as different strengths, abilities and interests, as do all humans.
How many people are autistic? Expand Previously it was thought that around 1% of the population will be autistic - which is one in 100 people. However, it’s now widely accepted that these statistics are outdated, and certainly from our experience, we believe this to be much higher.
Aycliffe School Expand Aycliffe School is an independent specialist school based in the North East Centre for Autism, Newton Aycliffe, County Durham for learners aged 3-19. If you would like further information on the support we can offer contact Nicola Brown, School Principal: By telephone: 01325 328090 By email: [email protected]
Thornhill Park School Expand Thornhill Park School is an independent specialist school based in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear for learners aged 4-19. If you would like further information on the support we can offer contact Christine Cave, Head Teacher: By telephone: 0191 565 3965 By email: [email protected]
What is the difference between a learning difficulty and a disability? Expand Learning disability – is a general term that refers to individuals who find it harder to learn, understand and communicate. Other terms that are used to describe an individual’s situation include complex needs or high support needs. Learning difficulty – is often used in educational settings and refers to individuals who have specific problems with learning as a result of either medical, emotional or language problems. Children and young people requiring special education needs (SEN) are often described as having a learning difficulty.
What are the signs and symptoms of possible autism? Expand Primary school children (age 5–11 years). Secondary school children (older than 11 years). Adapted from ‘Autism: recognition, referral and diagnosis of children and young people on the autism spectrum’ (NICE clinical guideline 128).
What happens if I don’t agree? Expand After a diagnosis it’s likely you’ll have to navigate an array of different thoughts, emotions and feelings. We want you to know that this is okay. As a parent, you may not agree with the findings, in which case you can request a second opinion. You can do this by: Going back to the GP. Tell them that you are not happy with the findings and that you would like your child to be referred elsewhere for a second opinion. Ask the diagnostic team to refer you on to a ‘specialist level of healthcare’ also known as a tertiary level service. This usually happens in ‘complex cases’ and does require additional funding. Seeking a private diagnosis.
What will happen after the assessment? Expand At the point of diagnosis you should receive a written report which explains the findings of the assessment and the reasons for any conclusions drawn. You may be asked for consent for the clinician to make referrals to other services such as Occupational Therapy. You may be offered a follow up appointment within six weeks of diagnosis. If you are not offered this, you are within your rights to request one. Some areas offer a post diagnostic autism course after a diagnosis, your clinician would refer you to this.
Who may be involved with my child's diagnosis? Expand Child and adolescent Psychiatrist: A doctor who specialises in children and young people’s mental health. Clinical psychologist: Someone who can assess your child’s psychological functioning and emotional wellbeing. Educational Psychologist: Someone who works to help your child overcome learning difficulties and behaviour in an education setting. Occupational Therapist: Someone who will support your child with their sensory differences. Paediatrician: A doctor who specialises in children’s health. Paediatric Neurologist: A doctor who specialises in the brain. Speech and language therapist: Someone who helps support speech and communication.