Support for parents of young children

In short

• You can raise concerns about your child's development without a diagnosis.
• Your health visitor or GP can talk through what you have noticed and refer your child for assessment.
• In England, early years settings should have arrangements for children with special educational needs, and extra funding may be available.
• Portage, parent groups and courses can offer practical help at home and with other families.

Noticing differences

You know your child best. Some parents notice differences in communication, play, sleep, eating or how their child responds to sounds, textures and routines. Others notice that their child is slower to reach some milestones.

You do not need to be sure before you ask for help. Keep brief notes about what you see, when it happens, and what helps. Short videos can also be useful to show a professional.

This guide cannot tell you whether your child is autistic. Only an assessment can do that.

Talking to your health visitor or GP

You can say something like: "I would like to talk about my child's development." Ask what happens next and what support is available while you wait.

A GP, school or health visitor (if your child is not of school age) usually makes a referral for an autism assessment. You can ask for a referral yourself if you have concerns.

Support in early years is based on need. You do not need a diagnosis to ask for help in many areas.

Early years support in England

Early years settings, such as nurseries, pre-schools and childminders, should have arrangements for children with special educational needs. Ask the setting who coordinates support for children with additional needs, and what they can put in place.

In England, the Disability Access Fund is a payment to early years providers for eligible children. Eligibility rules are national, and councils apply them. Ask your nursery or local council whether your child qualifies.

Portage

Portage is a home visiting educational service for young children with additional needs. A trained home visitor usually comes to your home every week or fortnight. You work together on small goals and play activities.

Portage is run by councils rather than the NHS, although health professionals often refer families to it. Eligibility and referral routes vary between councils. Check your council's SEND local offer page, or ask your health visitor.

Parent groups and courses

Parent groups can help you meet other families and share practical ideas. Courses on play, communication and understanding behaviour can also help. Ask your health visitor, children's centre, local council or a charity what is available.

Looking after yourself

Caring for a young child can be demanding, and it is fine to ask for help for yourself too. Speak to your health visitor, GP or council about support for your own wellbeing and any breaks you may need.

This guide is general information, not professional advice.