Understanding Autism and Sensory Processing Disorder

Being autistic doesn’t mean your child has an illness or disease. It means their brain works differently from others. Autism is something they are born with.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts, and behaves. The symptoms and severity can vary widely among individuals.

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) affects how the brain processes sensory information. Children with SPD may be over- or under-sensitive to stimuli, impacting their daily functioning and behavior.

Steps to Diagnosis

1. Observing the Signs As a parent, I was the first to notice developmental differences in my child. Common signs I observed included:

• Difficulty with communication or social interaction
• Repetitive behaviors or routines
• Sensitivity to lights, sounds, textures, or smells
• Difficulty with motor skills or coordination

1. Consulting with Healthcare Professionals I started by discussing my observations with a trusted healthcare professional, such as our pediatrician. They provided initial assessments and referrals to specialists.
2. Professional Assessments For an official diagnosis, we went through assessments by specialists, including:

• Psychologists: Evaluated developmental, cognitive, and behavioral aspects.
• Pediatricians: Conducted medical evaluations and coordinated care.
• Speech Pathologists: Assessed communication skills and language development.
• Occupational Therapists: Evaluated sensory processing and motor skills. These assessments included structured interviews, observations, and standardized testing.

Navigating the NDIS

Understanding Eligibility The NDIS provides funding for early intervention and support for children with developmental disabilities, including autism and SPD. To be eligible, your child must be:

• An Australian citizen or permanent resident
• Under the age of 65
• Diagnosed with a permanent and significant disability affecting their daily life

Accessing the NDIS

• Step 1: Contact the NDIS I started by contacting the NDIS directly and visiting their website to access the application forms and guidelines.
• Step 2: Gather Documentation I prepared documentation to support my child's application, including:
• Diagnostic reports from healthcare professionals
• Evidence of how the disability impacts daily life
• Recommendations for support and interventions
• Step 3: Submit an Access Request Form I submitted the completed Access Request Form along with the supporting documents to the NDIS.

Developing a Plan Once my child's application was approved, we worked with an NDIS planner to develop a personalized plan. This plan outlined:

• Goals: What we hoped to achieve for my child.
• Supports: Funded support categories, such as therapy, equipment, and support workers.
• Budget: The funding allocated for each support category.

Implementing the Plan With the plan in place, we began accessing services and support, including:

• Therapies: Speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral therapy.
• Support Services: Respite care, social skills groups, and educational support.
• Equipment: Sensory tools, communication devices, or mobility aids.

1. Reviewing and Adjusting the Plan The NDIS plan is reviewed regularly, typically every 12 months, to ensure it continues to meet your child's needs. You can request a review sooner if your child's circumstances change significantly.

Focusing on Strengths During NDIS InterviewsOne of the hardest aspects of the NDIS process is focusing on the negatives during interviews and assessments. It can feel disheartening to highlight only the challenges and difficulties your child faces. However, it's important to remember and celebrate your child's strengths and the unique qualities that make them who they are.Autism brings many strengths to the table, including:

• Attention to Detail: Many autistic children have a keen eye for detail and an ability to focus intensely on interests and tasks.
• Creativity: Their unique perspective can lead to original ideas and creative problem-solving.
• Honesty and Integrity: Autistic children are often refreshingly honest and straightforward.
• Strong Memory: Many have excellent memory skills, particularly for topics they are passionate about.

Tips for a Smooth NDIS Experience

• Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of assessments, reports, and correspondence with healthcare providers and the NDIS.
• Seek Support: Connect with parent support groups or advocacy organizations for guidance and emotional support.
• Stay Informed: Keep up to date with NDIS policies and any changes that may affect your child's plan.
• Be Proactive: Advocate for your child's needs and communicate openly with service providers and NDIS planners.
• Celebrate Strengths: Remember to celebrate your child's achievements and strengths. These qualities make them who they are and play a crucial role in their development and happiness.

Navigating the NDIS and obtaining a diagnosis for autism or sensory processing disorder can be overwhelming, but with the right support and information, you can access the resources your child needs to thrive. Remember, you are not alone on this journey—reach out for help and take advantage of the support available to you and your family.