Autism assessments for children & young people
Family-centred autism assessments and post-diagnostic support, focused on understanding, strengths and practical strategies at home and school.
Who this service is for
Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference that can affect communication, flexibility, sensory processing and how a child experiences the world. Our children and young people’s autism service is designed for:
- Parents and carers who think their child may be autistic
- Families who have noticed differences in communication, play, routines or sensory responses
- Young people who want to understand their experiences and identity
- Schools and GPs looking for a structured autism assessment pathway
All assessments take place remotely, with a strong focus on making the process predictable and supportive for children and families.
What autism can look like in children & young people
Autism presents differently in different children and at different ages. Some common features may include:
- Differences in play, communication or social interaction
- Strong preference for routine, predictability and sameness
- Intense interests or focus on particular topics or activities
- Sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, tastes or movement
- Differences in body language or eye contact
- High levels of effort needed to cope in social or busy environments, sometimes followed by exhaustion or meltdowns
A structured, family-focused assessment
Your child’s autism assessment pathway usually includes the following stages:
1. Referral & initial information
Parents or carers complete an initial information form about:
- Early development and milestones
- Communication, play and friendships
- Sensory preferences and responses
- Routines, flexibility and coping with change
- Experiences at nursery, school or college
You can also share any existing reports from school, speech and language therapy, paediatrics or other services.
2. Questionnaires & developmental history
We then send a pre-assessment pack, which may include:
- Parent/carer autism questionnaires
- School or college questionnaires, where available
- A structured developmental history form focusing on early years through to the present
This helps your clinician build a detailed picture of your child’s profile across home and education settings.
3. Autism assessment appointment
The main assessment is carried out via secure video with an experienced clinician. Depending on the child’s age and communication style, it may include:
- A detailed parent/carer interview
- Direct interaction or observation of your child or young person, adapted to their needs
- Review and integration of school and other professional reports
We explore communication, social understanding, play, interests, sensory processing and flexibility, using recognised autism diagnostic frameworks and clinical judgement.
4. Feedback & written report
After the assessment, your clinician will:
- Explain whether your child meets criteria for Autism (ASD)
- Highlight your child’s strengths and areas where support can make a difference
- Discuss any overlapping needs, such as ADHD, anxiety or learning differences
- Answer questions and agree on initial recommendations for home and school
You will receive a detailed written report, which you can share with your GP, school and other professionals.
Post-diagnostic support & psychoeducation
An autism diagnosis is not the end of the process – it is the starting point for better understanding and support.
Following diagnosis, families can access a structured autism psychoeducation offer, which may include:
- Helping parents and carers understand their child’s autistic profile and sensory needs
- Supporting children and young people to explore their identity in a positive way, at a pace that feels safe
- Practical strategies for routines, transitions and daily living skills
- Tools for recognising signs of overwhelm and planning recovery strategies
The aim is to build confidence, reduce stress and support the whole family.
Supporting home & school
We recognise that autism affects multiple parts of a child’s life. As part of our service, we can:
- Provide clear written reports and recommendations for schools and colleges
- Suggest adjustments to the classroom environment, transitions and communication
- Offer templates such as autism passports or one-page profiles to share key information with staff
- Support planning around important transitions (for example moving to secondary school, changing schools or starting college)
Working together with families and schools helps create environments where autistic children and young people can thrive.
How to access the CYP autism service
Our autism pathway for children and young people is usually accessed via:
- Private assessment – for families seeking an autism assessment and support
- In some areas, commissioned or contracted routes where MACC is an agreed provider
If you are unsure which route applies to you, you can start with our online enquiry form and we will advise you on the options.