Autism (Early Years)

Our aims

We provide early assessment and early intervention for children with Autism and other significant communication disorders. We also offer information towards diagnoses of Autism Spectrum Disorders and the identification of other disorders including ADHD and Specific Language Disorder and Learning Difficulties. 

We aim to work with parents towards developing an understanding of their child’s developmental strengths and weaknesses and to provide information, training and support for parents of children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Who the service is provided for

The service is provided for children up to 4 years old who present with significant social communication difficulties.

How the service works

Assessment:

Children are seen by a senior speech and language therapist and a teacher from the Autism Support Service, who arrange for more detailed observation and assessment of the child’s developmental progress and response to interventions through play sessions, nursery visits, etc.  Parents are included in feedback and future planning.  Where the child is thought to have Autism or an Autism Spectrum Disorder or there are concerns about Neurodevelopmental disorder the child will be offered a Social and Communication Disorders Assessment or a Multidisciplinary Assessment.

Follow up:

Some children may attend Footsteps group or have individual sessions at Ryegate.  Where children are attending nursery, any speech and language therapy will usually be integrated with educational support and provided through nursery staff. Parents can also access parent workshop sessions and follow up may be offered in medical clinics at Ryegate. Where there are concerns about the child’s behaviour or emotional wellbeing, a referral can be made to clinical psychology or parents can access the psychology drop-in service.

Access to the service

Referral can be by health visitor, developmental assessment clinic, speech and language therapist or GP. Referrals should be made to Lesley Cogher, Speech and Language Therapy Manager.