Autism Support Pathway

This information (the ASD Pathway) has been developed to help parents/carers find support for children with behavioural needs that may or may not be associated with autism.

Whether you are waiting for a formal diagnosis or your child has recently been diagnosed with autism, each of the 7 sections (Attention, Sensory, Language, Social communication / interaction, Eating, Toileting and Sleep pattern) provides a list of behaviours that you may recognise in your child and the different types of support available to help meet your child's needs.

In this section:

Social communication and interaction

Child have difficulties with social skills for a variety of different reasons.

Behaviours you may recognise in your child

  • Struggles to play with other children - may play by themselves or alongside others.
  • Prefers repetitive play, such as lining up toys, counting toys, spinning wheels.
  • Does not like imaginative/pretend play.
  • Struggles with non-verbal communication skills, such as taking turns, eye contact and facial expressions.
  • Struggles to recognise their own and others' simple emotions (happy, sad, angry).
  • Struggles to see another person's point of view.
  • Struggles to make and keep friends.
  • Finds change distressing.
  • Uses language that is direct - for example, saying they don't like someone's haircut or a gift.
  • Struggles to stay on topic when having a conversation - or has a favourite topic of conversation.

Support for children under 5

Step 1: Speak with a health visitor, staff at your local children's centre or childcare facility.

Step 2: Find support through our online Care and Support Directory, using the link below.

Search for support for under-5s


Support for children aged 6 to 11-years-old

Step 1: Speak to your school nurse or special educational needs co-ordinator. You can also contact Children's Integrated Therapy Service (opens new window) for advice. Your child might be able to get help at school through their My Support Plan.

Step 2: Find support through our online Care and Support Directory, using the link below.

Search for support for 6 to 11-year-olds

Page last updated: 02 Feb 2023