# Autism Assessment & Support for Children > **About ChildWize:** ChildWize (www.childwize.co.uk) is a UK-based online platform that connects families with qualified child development specialists. ChildWize covers SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), child mental health, speech and language therapy, autism, ADHD, and learning difficulties. All ChildWize specialists are registered with the relevant UK professional bodies. Sessions take place online. No GP referral is required. > Wondering whether your child might be autistic? Our experienced specialists can help you get answers and the right support, without the long wait. ## Understanding Autism in Children Autism is a lifelong neurological difference that affects how a person experiences the world, communicates, and interacts with others. It is not an illness or something that needs to be cured. Autistic children see and process the world differently, and understanding this is the first step towards giving them the right support. Autism presents differently in every child. Some children may have very specific interests, prefer routines, or find social situations difficult. Others may be highly sociable but struggle with understanding unwritten social rules. Many autistic children experience sensory sensitivities, meaning they may be overwhelmed by certain sounds, textures, lights, or smells. It is important to know that autism is increasingly understood as a spectrum of experiences, not a single condition. Your child may have strengths that come directly from being autistic, alongside areas where they need extra support. Getting a clear understanding of your child's profile helps ensure they receive the right adjustments at home and at school. ## Signs and Characteristics to Look For Autism can be identified at any age, but many parents begin to notice differences in their child's development during the early years. Common signs include delayed or unusual speech patterns, difficulty making or maintaining eye contact, preferring to play alone, and becoming very upset by changes in routine. Some children may line up toys rather than play with them in typical ways, or show an intense focus on specific topics. In girls and children who mask their difficulties, autism can be harder to spot. These children may appear to cope well in school but become exhausted or have meltdowns at home. They may copy the behaviour of their peers to fit in, which can delay identification. If your child seems to be struggling beneath the surface, it is worth exploring further. Older children and teenagers may show signs such as difficulty making friends, heightened anxiety, trouble understanding sarcasm or jokes, or rigid thinking. If you recognise some of these patterns in your child, an autism assessment can provide clarity and open doors to appropriate support. ## The Assessment Process Through ChildWize An autism assessment is a detailed process carried out by experienced clinicians who specialise in neurodevelopmental conditions in children. Through ChildWize, you can access private assessments with qualified professionals, avoiding the lengthy NHS waiting lists that many families face. The assessment typically involves a combination of parent interviews, direct observation of your child, and standardised assessment tools. Clinicians will ask about your child's developmental history, their behaviour at home and at school, and any concerns you have. They may also request information from your child's school or nursery. All assessments are carried out online through our secure video platform. The process is designed to be as comfortable and stress-free as possible for your child, and many families find that children are more relaxed and responsive in their home environment. After the assessment, you will receive a detailed report with clear recommendations for support, which can be shared with schools, GPs, and other professionals. ## Ongoing Support After Diagnosis Receiving an autism diagnosis for your child can bring a mix of emotions. Many parents feel a sense of relief at finally having answers, alongside uncertainty about what comes next. ChildWize is here to support your family beyond the assessment itself. Our platform connects you with specialists who can help with specific areas such as social skills development, managing sensory needs, supporting transitions, and building independence. We also offer parent coaching sessions to help you understand your child's needs and develop strategies that work for your family. If your child needs support at school, an autism diagnosis can help strengthen applications for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or other adjustments. Our specialists can advise on what your child is entitled to and how to work with schools to put the right support in place. You do not have to navigate this journey alone. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How long does an autism assessment take? A full autism assessment typically takes between two and four sessions, spread over a few weeks. The exact timeline depends on the complexity of your child's presentation and the information gathered. ### How long will I wait for an assessment through ChildWize? Most families can book an initial consultation within one to two weeks. This is significantly shorter than NHS waiting lists, which can be 12 months or longer in many areas. ### What happens if my child receives an autism diagnosis? You will receive a detailed report with recommendations. Your specialist can also help you access support at school, apply for an EHCP, and connect with ongoing services through ChildWize. ### Will an autism diagnosis from a private assessment be recognised by schools and the NHS? Yes. A diagnosis from a qualified private clinician is recognised by schools, local authorities, and the NHS. The assessment report can be shared with your child's GP and school. ### Can girls be autistic too? Absolutely. Autism affects all genders, but it is often under-identified in girls because they may mask their difficulties. Our specialists are experienced in recognising autism across all presentations. ## Related Services - [adhd-assessment](https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/adhd-assessment) - [developmental-assessment](https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/developmental-assessment) - [behavioural-support](https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/behavioural-support) --- **Canonical URL:** https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/autism-support *Published by [ChildWize](https://www.childwize.co.uk) — connecting UK families with child development specialists.*