Reprobate Mum shop just launched!
Discover the products that have worked for me and my family!
The Reprobate Mum Boxy T-Shirt offers a fashionable boxy silhouette featuring the Reprobate Mum logo in a comfortable, relaxed fit for rebel parents. Crafted from 100% organic combed cotton. One size only (for now!)
How to get a diagnosis
Useful sources of information about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other issues I talk about in my blog. Many (but not all) are UK-based, because, guess what? I’m British 😉
Getting a diagnosis as an adult
I got my own diagnosis through Problem Shared. They *are* a private provider but they can be accessed through the NHS. Be warned, waiting lists are LOOOOONG.
I genuinely think getting a diagnosis as an adult can be help you are struggling, either with your mental health, your workplace or simply accessing the right healthcare and not feeling gaslit by health professionals. Believe me, in the autism community, this is rife.
Getting a diagnosis for your child
For my kids’ diagnoses I started through my GP with First Steps and progressed to CAMHS. The whole process when Jonah was a toddler to diagnosis was about three years. (he was diagnosed at 6 year old.). Early intervention is helpful, but unlike in the US, where some contraversial therapies (such as ABA) may be offered to young children. However, I think positive reinforcement is a great tool for all children, not just those on the spectrum. However, my experience is mainly with children with moderate autism (what used to be called Asperger’s) and relatively low support needs.
If your child fits this profile, feel free to contact me for paid-for advice on managing behaviour and promoting wellness and wellbeing. I am a qualified autism specialist with over 20 years experience raising kids on the autism spectrum. Also happy just to lend an ear while you offload!
Autism in women and girls
Female autism is a topic that’s close to my heart since I was finally diagnosed in 2024 (with a surprise diagnoses of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) to go with it.
Find out more about AuDHD.
What’s behind the sudden rise in AuDHD diagnoses?
Autism in women that is often misdiagnosed. Here’s why!
Content and resources
I came across this great pinboard by Heydi-Maryke de Waal who posts a whole load of helpful ASD related content, including this guide to early signs of ASD, which is a great resource if you’re coping with a diagnosis, or concerned about your child.
Seventh Voice offers a fantastic range of articles and analysis about he autism experience, from issues for ‘aspergirls’ to the idea that ASD sufferers have an excess, rather than a lack of empathy.
Life with an autistic son, by B’s Dad is a great source of inspiration, detailing the trials and tribulations of his experience, along with additional resources.
Annakennedyonline offers support and advice for parents raising children with autism and for people living with the condition.
Anna Kennedy OBE is an amazing inspiration for anyone on their own journey with autism, and has written a book Not Stupid about her own journey with her two sons to creating a special needs school, Hillingdon Manor that served their needs and those of other members of the community on the spectrum.
Autism forums hosted by Lost and Tired, confessions of an autism dad – an interesting and well-respected blog written by the father of a three boys on the autism spectrum, are a great source of support and advice.
For ADHD profile kids (ASD and ADHD often go hand in hand) Fidget to focus offers a handy free guide to helping your child sit still.
Autism and diet
I am planning to make a dedicated page about autism and diet, but in the meantime, these are useful resources about how diet and autism symptoms could be linked:
At a glance guide to GAPS intro diet
Things to do with kids in London
In London and need to get out of the house? Check out Urban Explorers for a handy weekend rundown of what’s on in the capital for parents with kids to entertain.
For those in East London, where I’m from, East End Kids (run by a mum mate of mine) offers a great round up of things to do locally
Want to teach your child to code? Codasign is a Hackney based team help children to use digital technologies with as much creativity as paint and canvas.
Skincare and help for skin problems
If, like me, you’ve struggled with skin issues PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) and hormonal issues go hand in hand with ASD (autism spectrum disorder)
I’ve found Simple Skincare Science to be an invaluable resource. They have products too, which I used with my kids where they started to suffer from teenage acne, but but I personally find benzyl peroxide to bleach all my nice towels and bedding, so only use if you have everything in white!
I have recently been using the Yuka app to minimize harmful ingredients in my products.
I have had some success using products from SkinShop. They have things from acne, rosacea and eczema skin types, and I find them to be good value and naturally derived.
Other things I find helpful
Apple cider vinegar – I use this in everything and drink it (diluted) too. Willy’s has lots of nice flavours. for putting in baths and skincare, a generic one will do fine. You want one with ‘mother’ in it.
Weighted blankets can be really helpful for a hypo sensitive autistic child with sensory issues that make it hard for them to sleep. And adults too! Neptune blankets is actually owned by a friend of my brother-in-law in Oz. I’m trying to convince them to let me sell it for him here in the UK 🙂
Acupressure mats – If you want a truly relaxing rest, and help with healing, an acupressure mat can put you into a deep state of relaxation. I take a half hour nap daily on mine. There are lots of brands – mostly famously the Shakti mat. However, this is good value and has really sharp spikes. Seriously, you can sleep on it. Can make you a bit red and sore when you get off it though, but only for a second!
Melatonin – only given on prescription in the UK. I use it for a good night most days – I suffered years of insomnia with Jonah and now I’m peri, I NEED my sleep. You ca get it from Piping Rock in the UK.
I am hoping to set up a shop with products that I like and have a relationship with. If you’re a brand representative, and would like me to consider promoting your products, please contact me on reprobatemum@reprobatemum.com
I will only ever promote products, good or services that I truly think are good and worth the money.
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Just to say – it’s ‘Codasign’ and they are based even nearer to you than you thought – in Space Studios on Mare St.
Thanks for the update! I put this together on the hop. Will correct!