If you’re the parent or carer of a child with Sensory Processing Differences (SPD), Autism, ADHD or AuDHD, waiting can become part of everyday life.
Every morning begins with waiting.
Waiting for your child to get out of bed.
Waiting for them to eat breakfast.
Waiting while they find the right clothes that don’t feel uncomfortable.
Waiting to get shoes on.
Waiting to leave the house.
And then there is the waiting that extends far beyond the morning routine.
Waiting to understand why your child is struggling.
Waiting for a GP appointment.
Waiting to see an Occupational Therapist.
Waiting to begin a diagnostic assessment.
Waiting for an EHCP decision.
Waiting for Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
Waiting for school support.
Waiting for someone else to see what you see every single day.
For many families, waiting doesn’t last weeks. It lasts months or even years.
You’re Not Alone
Waiting can feel exhausting, particularly when your child needs support now.
Many families tell us they feel stuck between knowing something isn’t right and being able to access the help their child deserves.
If you’re currently waiting for an EHCP, you’re not alone.
Many applications are initially refused, often because services are under enormous pressure rather than because children don’t need support. While every family’s experience is different, it’s important to remember that a refusal is not always the end of the process.
Your Child Doesn’t Have to Wait for Support
One of the biggest misconceptions we hear is that children cannot receive support until they have a diagnosis or an EHCP.
That simply isn’t true.
Every school is expected to provide Ordinarily Available Inclusive Provision (OAIP)—the reasonable adjustments that help children access learning before any formal diagnosis or Education, Health and Care Plan is in place.
These adjustments might include:
- Seating that reduces distractions.
- Instructions broken into manageable steps.
- Movement breaks throughout the day.
- Access to sensory or fidget tools.
- Adaptations that help children regulate and participate in learning.
If you’re unsure what support your child’s school offers, ask to see their OAIP policy and discuss how it can meet your child’s individual needs.
While You’re Waiting
Waiting doesn’t mean doing nothing.
Keeping a record of your child’s experiences, gathering evidence, speaking with school staff, and seeking advice can all help build a clearer picture of the support your child needs.
Most importantly, don’t try to navigate it on your own.
Why The Fidget Project Exists
The Fidget Project was created because we recognised that families need support long before a diagnosis arrives.
We offer practical advice, welcoming parent support groups, one-to-one guidance, access to specialist practitioners, sensory resources, and a community of people who understand what waiting feels like.
Whether you’re at the very beginning of your journey or several years into it, you don’t have to face it alone.
How We Can Help
Our support groups and one-to-one sessions are open to families whether or not they have a diagnosis or referral.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by paperwork, unsure about the next steps, or simply need someone to listen, we’re here.
Visit our Get Involved page to find out about our latest support sessions, book an appointment, or learn more about how The Fidget Project can support your family.
Because while the system may ask families to wait, support shouldn’t have to.
