Your child has just been diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. You may have had concerns for a while and the assessment process may have prepared you to some extent for the confirmation that you have just received. Or you may have been convinced that a mistake was made and your child doesn't have these difficulties. Regardless of where you are in the range of responses at this point, you will probably be experiencing many different feelings, reactions and thoughts.

No matter how prepared you are, the chances are you are now worrying about the future, what next, and how on earth do you explain what you now know to others in the family, friends, and your child's school, or your child?

The factsheet below is designed to help you begin to understand you and your family's journey with Autism.

Guidance for parents/carers with a recent diagnosis with a recent diagnosis.