Parents can be left waiting for years for their children to get a diagnosis.
A new task force has been set up in Laois for children who have additional needs.
Independent election candidate in the county, Elaine Mullally organised the group to provide support and a roadmap for parents who are concerned about their child and wonder if they may have special needs.
Some parents in Laois have been left waiting five years for a diagnosis for their child.
Ms Mullally, who owns and runs Clown Around play centre in Portarlington, says there cannot be a "one size fits all" approach taken to children with autism and special needs:
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