Does my child have an Autism Spectrum Disorder?
This advice is not intended to replace professional advice. Please contact your health professional for further information and a diagnosis.
Some parents who have read or heard information about Autism, Aspergers Syndrome and other Autism Spectrum Disorders during April Autism Awareness Month may have become concerned that their child may be showing some of the signs of these disorders. If you are one of those parents, here are some steps you might want to follow to find out more.
1) Find out what a child is expected to have achieved at different ages.
We call this "developmental milestones." This helps teachers and medical practitioners determine whether a child is having a significant difficulty in one or more areas of development.
To find out about what is expected at different ages, visit the Queensland Government Community Child Health page about developmental stages. Look at the document relevant to your child's age group and complete the checklist. If there is more that one thing that your child really struggles with, especially in the social and communication areas, you may need to seek professional advice.
2) Fill in a questionnaire about your child's development.
Have a look at the Interactive Diagnosis Questionnaire on Autism Spectrum Australia's website. It will guide you to download a zipped file that contains a cover letter, a parent questionnaire, a teacher questionnaire as well as referral forms for Autism Spectrum Australia's diagnostic service.
You don't have to use the referral. However, the parent questionnaire can give you an idea if your child is struggling in all the key areas used to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorders. Having a teacher (preschool or school teacher) fill in the teacher questionnaire can also give you a more complete idea of your child's difficulties.
If you find the language in the questionnaire a bit confusing, take it to your doctor, preschool teacher or other teacher and ask them to help you. Alternatively, contact me or your local Autism Advisory Service for help (see contacts listed below).
3) Seek professional advice.
You can talk to your GP, pediatrician or other health professional and they will be able to provide you with some advice as to what to do next. While getting a "label" for your child may not be what you want, it will be important for if you want to access any services designed for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Getting a label does not change who your child is. However, it may help you better understand and support them in learning and interacting in our world.
For more advice contact the following:
NSW , Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, Western Australia, Northern Territory, Queensland.
Autism Information Line: 1800 069 978 (NSW only)
infoline@autismspectrum.org.au
Information Line: 1300 308 699
info@autismvictoria.org.au
Information Line: 1300 288 476
Information Line: 1300 288 476
admin@autismsa.org.au
Autism Association of Western Australia
Contact: (08) 9489 8900 or 1800 636 427 (country callers)
Autism Advisor: (08) 89474800
valexander@autismsa.org.au
Information and Helpline: (07) 327 30000
outreachservices@autismqld.com.au
Written by and copyright to Amanda Gray 2009-2010 Last updated 17th April, 2010