Early signs of autism include limited eye contact, delayed speech, repetitive movements, strong need for routine, and unusual sensory responses. Children may struggle with social interaction, gestures, or changes in environment. If multiple signs appear, a professional autism assessment can provide clarity and support for early intervention.

If your child shows persistent social, communication, or behavioral differences that impact daily life, an autism assessment may help. Signs include limited eye contact, delayed speech, repetitive behaviors, sensory sensitivities, difficulty with change, or struggling to connect with peers. If concerns persist, a professional evaluation can provide clarity and support.

Our private autism assessment costs £2,800 (estimated to be 20 clinical hours), and includes: Two in-person assessment sessions using gold-standard tools (ADOS-2 & ADI-R) Multi-disciplinary team evaluation with expert clinicians Comprehensive diagnostic report with clear findings Personalized feedback session to discuss results and next steps Guidance on support and interventions tailored to your child’s needs This thorough process ensures a professional, recognised diagnosis.

Yes, research suggests autism has a genetic component, meaning it can run in families. Children with a family history of autism may have a higher likelihood of being diagnosed. However, it is not yet clear the exact causes of autism, and research suggests that multiple genes alongside environmental factors contribute to autism, rather than a single cause.

There is no single biggest symptom of autism as it is a spectrum disorder with a wide variety and severity of symptoms. Signs of autism include limited eye contact, delayed speech, repetivitive movements, strong need for routine and unusual sensory responses. Children may struggle with social communication and interaction. This may include limited eye contact, trouble understanding emotions, lack of response to their name, delayed speech, or difficulty engaging in back-and-forth conversations. Social challenges often appear early and impact a child’s ability to connect with others.

To confirm if your child has autism, a professional autism assessment is needed. If you notice persistent social, communication, or behavioral differences, an assessment can provide a clear diagnosis and guidance on next steps. Early identification helps access the right support and interventions.

Only a qualified professional can formally diagnose autism through a structured assessment process. However, signs such as social difficulties, repetitive behaviors, sensory sensitivities, and communication challenges may indicate autism. If you or someone you know shows persistent traits affecting daily life, a professional evaluation can provide clarity and guidance.

NICE recommends a multi-disciplinary team conduct an assessment using the following 'Gold Standard' tools: ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd Edition) – A structured, play-based assessment to observe social and communication skills. ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised) – A detailed parent interview to assess developmental history and behaviours.

Delayed or limited speech – Difficulty with language development or unusual speech patterns. Social challenges – Limited eye contact, trouble understanding emotions, or difficulty making friends. Repetitive behaviours – Hand-flapping, spinning, lining up objects, or strict routines. Sensory sensitivities – Overreaction or under reaction to sounds, textures, lights, or touch. Difficulty with change – Strong preference for routines and distress when disrupted.

Masking is when an individual hides or suppresses their autistic traits in order to fit in with a neurotypical society. This might look like mimicking social cues, suppressing repetitive behaviours, or even forcing eye contact.

There is no cure for autism. Please remember it's not about 'fixing' your child, but about accepting, understanding, and supporting them in their individual journey.

Autism exists on a spectrum, meaning symptoms vary from mild to severe and differ for each child. There’s nothing wrong with being on the spectrum—it simply means some individuals experience subtle traits, while others may have more pronounced challenges, with many falling somewhere in between.

The idea that "we’re all a little bit autistic" often comes from a place of understanding and acceptance. However, this can unintentionally downplay the real challenges autistic individuals face. Autism is a neurological difference, not just a set of traits, and recognising its impact is key to providing meaningful support.

Life for a person with autism varies greatly, as experiences differ from person to person. Many face challenges with social interactions, struggling to read cues or build connections. Sensory sensitivities can make everyday environments overwhelming, while a strong need for routine helps provide stability. Some develop intense interests, focusing deeply on specific topics, and many possess unique strengths such as attention to detail and innovative thinking. With the right support and understanding, autistic individuals can navigate life in a way that works best for them, allowing them to thrive in their own unique way.