When my child was first diagnosed with autism I was upset and shocked although it was a relief to know what the problem was, I was upset, angry and confused. At first it was difficult to take in what this meant for my child and the family.

Find out about the help available to you It can take time to get answers to all your questions, but an assessment of your child’s difficulties will be the first step in getting a fuller picture of their needs. You’ll probably want to talk about how your child will be affected, now and in the future, and find out more about autism and the help available.

The National Autistic Society is a leading UK charity for people with autism and their families. They provide information, support and pioneering services and campaign for a better world for people with autism. Their work relies on your support, so please get involved or donate today.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Here are ten things every child with autism wishes you knew:

1. I am a child.

2. My senses are out of sync.

3. Distinguish between won’t (I choose not to) and can’t (I am not able to).

4. I’m a concrete thinker. I interpret language literally.

5. Listen to all the ways I’m trying to communicate.

6. Picture this! I’m visually oriented.

7. Focus and build on what I can do rather than what I can’t do.

8. Help me with social interactions.

9. Identify what triggers my meltdowns.

10. Love me unconditionally.

Based on information supplied by Christine Moran.