What this section is about
This is where you list diagnoses and suspected conditions. But remember: diagnosis alone does not win . Daily needs do.
Avoid saying
- Autism.
- .
- .
- Anxiety.
- Sensory issues.
Better ways to explain
- Autism affects my child's communication, emotional regulation, sensory processing, social understanding and ability to manage change.
- affects my child's impulse control, safety awareness, attention and ability to follow instructions.
- -type demand avoidance means ordinary daily requests can trigger panic, refusal, shutdown or meltdown.
Example wording
My child's autism, anxiety and sensory processing differences affect daily life in several areas. They require adult support with personal care, eating, transitions, emotional regulation, social understanding, safety outdoors and sleep. These needs are ongoing and significantly greater than another child of the same age.
Evidence that helps
- Diagnosis report
- Paediatrician letter
- Autism assessment
- assessment
- letter
- sensory report
- School documents
Common mistakes
- Writing diagnosis only
- Not explaining what the diagnosis causes
- Not linking diagnosis to daily support
- Forgetting suspected conditions
- Forgetting co-occurring anxiety or sleep issues
Part of the Bright Steps Ultimate Guide. For the full interactive walkthrough with printable templates, sign in and visit the DLA Guide.