Autism in Children: Diagnosis, Signs, and Support

Autism in Children: Diagnosis, Signs, and Support (UK)

This UK-focused guide explains autism in children and what families can do next. You’ll see the early signs of autism, how to use an autism spectrum test or an autism screening questionnaire UK, what a formal autism assessment involves, and the help available from school, your local council and national charities. We keep the language clear and practical for daily living.

What is autism?

Autism—also called autism spectrum condition—describes lifelong differences in social interaction, social communication and patterns of behaviour or sensory processing. Children vary widely. Some talk early and read well; others are autistic children who use few words or prefer pictures. The core features are present from early development and influence daily living at home and school. The term “Asperger syndrome” is now folded into the autism spectrum, though some autistic adults still use the label about themselves.

Common signs of autism in a child

• Socially communicating: limited back-and-forth conversation, unusual eye contact, difficulty reading facial expressions, or a preference to play alone.
• Social interaction: unsure how to join games, finds turn-taking or sharing hard, or becomes anxious in noisy groups.
• Flexibility and interests: strong routines, distress with change, lining up toys, or very focused interests.
• Sensory differences: sensitive to sound, touch or food textures, or seeks movement and pressure.
• Communication profile: late speech, very formal speech, echolalia (repeating), or relying on gestures rather than words.

Autism can occur with other health conditions such as ADHD, anxiety or a learning disability. Because of this mix, only a qualified healthcare professional should make a decision about autism diagnosis.

First steps: screening and “test on autism spectrum” tools

Families often start with an online or paper autism spectrum test—a short questionnaire sometimes called an autism test child or test on autism spectrum. These tools help you decide whether to seek a full assessment and give examples to your GP or school SENCO. Screening suggests whether a child shows signs of autism; it does not replace a diagnosis.

The UK assessment pathway

1. Speak to your GP or SENCO. Take examples from the last 6–12 months at home and school—social interaction, communication style, flexibility, sleep and sensory needs. Ask for referral for a multidisciplinary autism assessment.
2. Questionnaires and history. Parents and teachers complete forms so the picture is seen in more than one place for the child or young person.
3. Direct assessment. A consultant paediatrician, child and adolescent psychiatrist or clinical psychologist observes play/communication, reviews development and may involve speech-and-language and occupational therapy.
4. Clinical judgement. A UK-registered health professional integrates evidence to confirm or rule out autism, and to consider other explanations such as language difference, ADHD or a learning disability.
5. Feedback and report. You receive a clear plan for school and home, with recommendations for support, reasonable adjustments and follow-up.

Waiting times can be long. In England, you may ask your GP about Right to Choose for an external provider. If you explore a private route, confirm the package includes parent and child interviews, teacher questionnaires and a full written report that school can use.

What is a child with autism entitled to (UK)?

• Education support. Schools provide help through SEN Support; if needs are complex or progress is limited, you can request an Education, Health and Care Plan via your local council.
• Disability Living Allowance (DLA). Some families qualify for disability living allowance DLA when care or mobility needs are significantly above that of peers.
• Reasonable adjustments. Predictable routines, visual timetables, shorter instructions, sensory breaks, and exam access arrangements.
• Information and advocacy. The National Autistic Society offers guidance, helplines and support groups across the UK.

Child autism therapy and practical support

• Speech and language therapy to build social communication and understanding of non-verbal cues.
• Occupational therapy for sensory profiles, daily living skills and classroom access.
• Parent coaching to use visuals, first-then language, calm routines and problem-solving.
• School collaboration—modelling social skills, supported play, and structured practice during unstructured times.

These approaches are often grouped as child autism therapy. They focus on reducing stress, supporting comfort and building independent skills rather than “fixing” a child.

How autism looks across the lifespan

Autism continues into adulthood; many autistic people thrive with the right environment and expectations. Some adults prefer identity-first language (“autistic adults”), some prefer person-first language. What matters most is respect and access to the support that fits the person.

When to seek urgent help

If safety is a concern, mood is very low, or sudden changes in sleep or eating appear, contact your GP, NHS 111, or urgent mental health services the same day.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a diagnosis before school can help? No. Schools act on need. SEN Support adjustments should start as soon as the pattern is clear and reviewed regularly.

Is an “autism screening questionnaire UK” enough? It helps you gather information and speak clearly with professionals, but only a registered clinician can confirm diagnosis.

Who can diagnose? UK-registered health professionals such as consultant paediatricians, child and adolescent psychiatrists or clinical psychologists working to national guidance.

Related guides

• How to parent a child with ADHD and autism
• Where to get my child tested for ADHD near me
• ADHD test online for kids