Autism is usually diagnosed in childhood, sometimes when a parent raises a concern about their child with their G.P. or health professional. A Paediatrician, attached to a child development centre, can usually diagnose Autism in children upon them reaching the age of 2 or 3 years old.

A milder form of ASD, such as Aperger’s Syndrome, is often not diagnosed until the child starts school, because many of their aspects of development are normal. At school, their poor social skills are more noticeable and they may show challenging behaviour. There is no medical test for ASD. However, tests may be carried out to exclude other conditions such as hearing problems. The diagnosis is then based on observing the communication, behaviour and development of the child. Professionals will involve the parents in the assessment process to find out about the child’s development.

If Autism is suspected, the child may be assessed at the child development centre to identify their specific needs. The child may see a range of professionals including a consultant development paediatrician, child psychiatrist and an education expert such as a special teacher or educational psychologist.

Each child should have an appointed key worker, such as a health visitor or school nurse, who knows about the assessment and acts as a single point of contact.