Autism Assessment: Why "Wait and see" Hurts more than it Helps.

"Wait and see" is a phrase commonly thrown around especially when new or first time parents start asking questions regarding their child's development. Typically this is followed up by stories of children that they've known who have miraculously caught up overnight without intervention.

The truth is

• Yes - all children are different and have slightly different developmental timelines

• Yes - there are children who experience delays who then catch up and meet their milestones with little support

• No - You shouldn't be obsessively worrying and missing out on the joy of your child's development

However, when we tell observant parents to just "wait and see" or that they are "worrying too much", what we are actually doing is more harmful than helpful. While there is a chance that a delay could resolve itself, there is an even bigger chance that the delay will become more significant as time goes on without intervention. Delaying an autism assessment or other developmental tests only delays access to potentially life-changing interventions.

The BIGGER truth is

• Parents know their child better than anyone - their gut feelings and concerns are valid

• Seeking professional support and assessments give parents valuable information, access to resources and validation

• Early intervention can help support a wide variety of developmental delays and help bridge the gap much sooner than later interventions

We can support families by encouraging anyone who has concerns about their child's development to

• REACH OUT to professionals and ask questions

• SEEK developmental assessments

• BE PROACTIVE in accessing services

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There are no silly or unimportant questions - if you need someone to support you in this journey please reach out at asturgeon@shinefamilyservices.com