How Do I Get My Child Assessed for Autism?
As a parent, you want to ensure that your child receives the best support and care possible. If you have concerns about your child’s development and suspect they may have autism, the first step is to seek a formal assessment. Getting an autism diagnosis early is crucial, as it opens the door to early intervention services that can significantly improve your child’s social, communication, and cognitive development.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the process of how to get your child assessed for autism, from recognising the signs to finding the right professionals.
Step 1: Recognising the Signs
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how a child thinks, interacts, and experiences the world. The signs can vary greatly from child to child, but some common early indicators include:
Difficulty with social interactions and communication (e.g., limited eye contact, not responding to their name).
Engaging in repetitive behaviors (e.g., hand-flapping, obsessively lining up toys).
Delayed speech or language skills.
Sensory sensitivities or a strong preference for routines and sameness.
If you notice any of these signs or have concerns about your child’s development, it’s important to seek a professional evaluation. Early intervention is key to supporting your child’s growth and helping them thrive.
Step 2: Talk to Your GP or Pediatrician
Your first step in getting an assessment is to speak with your child’s GP or pediatrician. They are a great resource to help guide you through the process. Your GP will likely ask about your child’s development, behavior, and any concerns you may have. They may also perform some initial developmental screenings to identify any potential red flags.
If your GP believes that further evaluation is necessary, they will refer you to a specialist, such as a developmental pediatrician, child psychologist, or speech-language pathologist, who has experience in diagnosing autism.
Step 3: Getting a Referral to a Specialist
A comprehensive autism assessment typically involves several professionals who specialize in child development. This may include:
Developmental Pediatrician: A pediatrician with expertise in diagnosing developmental disorders, including autism. They may conduct physical exams, review developmental milestones, and recommend further testing.
Psychologist or Psychiatrist: A child psychologist or psychiatrist with expertise in autism will assess your child’s behavior, communication, and social skills. They may use standardized diagnostic tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) or Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) to evaluate the severity of your child’s symptoms.
Speech Pathologist: If your child has communication challenges, a speech pathologist will assess their language skills and offer recommendations for improving speech and communication.
Occupational Therapist: If your child struggles with sensory sensitivities or fine motor skills, an occupational therapist can assess their ability to manage daily tasks and suggest strategies for improvement.
Step 4: The Diagnostic Process
During the assessment process, the specialists will observe your child in various settings (e.g., home, clinic) and may ask you to complete questionnaires about your child’s behavior. The process may include:
Interviews with Parents: The professionals will ask you about your child’s developmental history, behavior, and family history. Your observations as a parent are invaluable in understanding your child’s needs.
Standardized Testing: Tests such as the ADOS or ADI-R may be used to assess your child’s social skills, communication, and behavior.
Observation of Behavior: The specialists will observe how your child plays, interacts with others, and responds to different stimuli. This will help them understand your child’s unique behaviors and developmental needs.
Step 5: Understanding the Diagnosis
After the assessment is completed, the specialists will discuss the findings with you. If your child is diagnosed with autism, the diagnosis will likely include information about:
Severity: Autism is a spectrum disorder, which means the severity of symptoms can vary from mild to more significant. The diagnosis may specify if your child requires significant support or if they can function more independently.
Recommendations for Intervention: Based on the diagnosis, the specialists will recommend therapies, interventions, and resources to support your child’s development. These may include speech therapy, behavioral therapy, social skills training, and more.
Possible Additional Support: Your child may be eligible for additional services, such as government funding through programs like the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia. These programs can help cover the costs of therapy, assessments, and support services.
Step 6: Early Intervention and Support
Once your child is diagnosed, the next step is to begin early intervention. Early intervention programs are designed to address your child’s specific needs and can dramatically improve their outcomes.
At All Things Ability, I offer specialized early intervention services using evidence-based therapies like the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), which is highly effective for young children with autism. ESDM focuses on building communication, social skills, and play-based learning through fun and engaging activities.
Getting Started with Early Intervention
Getting your child assessed and diagnosed is just the beginning of their developmental journey. Early intervention can provide your child with the tools and support they need to reach their full potential. It’s important to remember that the earlier the diagnosis, the sooner your child can begin receiving tailored support.
If you have concerns about your child’s development or want to learn more about how early intervention can help, feel free to reach out to me. Together, we can create a plan that supports your child’s unique strengths and needs.