How to Prepare Your Child for an Autism Evaluation

Why your preparation matters

The CDC explains that there is no medical test, such as a blood test, to diagnose autism. Professionals look at a child's developmental history and behavior instead. That means much of what an evaluator learns comes from you: how your child grew, what you see at home and what teachers have noticed.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) describes an in-depth conversation with a child's caregivers about behavior and development as part of a diagnostic evaluation. It also notes that it is important for the provider to learn about a child's strengths, not only their challenges. A little preparation helps you give a full, balanced picture without having to remember everything on the spot.

What to gather before the first appointment

You do not need a perfect file. Pull together what you can find, and keep it in one folder or one place on your computer so it is easy to share.

• School information: report cards, teacher comments, any notes about behavior or friendships, and any plan or evaluation the school has done.
• Earlier reports: copies of past evaluations, therapy notes or doctor's letters. NIMH suggests keeping copies of health care reports and evaluations, along with records of meetings with providers and teachers.
• Notes on development: when your child first used words, pointed, waved or played pretend, and anything that seemed early, late or different. Baby books, photos and old videos can jog your memory.
• Family history: the CDC encourages parents to tell the doctor about conditions in the family, including autism, learning disorders, intellectual disability or ADHD.
• Examples from home: a few recent moments that show what concerns you, written in plain words, such as how your child reacts when plans change or how they play with other children.
• Strengths and interests: what your child loves, what they are good at and what calms them.

Keeping a week of everyday notes

In the week or two before the evaluation, try jotting down short notes as things happen. Memory tends to blur details, and a note written the same day is often clearer than a summary written later.

Useful notes say what happened, where, and what came before and after. For example: "Bedtime routine changed because we had guests. Cried for a long time and could not settle." The CDC lists unusual reactions to the way things sound, smell, taste, look or feel among the signs that can be related to autism, so it can help to note sensory moments too, like covering ears at loud noises or refusing certain clothes.

The CDC also points out that children with autism may not show all, or any, of the behaviors on a typical list of signs. Write down what you actually see, not what you think an evaluator expects to hear.

How to explain the appointment to your child

How much you say depends on your child's age and how they handle new situations. Many children do better with a short, calm explanation a day or two ahead than with a long talk or a last-minute surprise.

1. 1Keep it simple and honestYou might say, "You are going to meet someone on the computer who wants to get to know how you think, learn and play, so we can understand how to help things go better."
2. 2Make clear it is not a test to passLet your child know there are no right or wrong answers and that they cannot fail. The goal is to learn about them, including what they do well.
3. 3Show them where it will happenIf your child likes to know what to expect, show them the room and the device ahead of time, and let them sit in the chair they will use.
4. 4Answer questions without pressureIf your child asks why, give a brief answer that focuses on understanding and support, not on problems. Older children and teens may want to say what they find hard in their own words.

Setting up the video space and the day itself

The National Institute on Aging offers practical tips for any video health visit, and they apply well here: test the camera, sound and video on your device in advance, charge the device the night before, use the best internet connection you can, find a quiet space with good lighting, and place the device on a sturdy surface rather than holding it.

On the day, keep the morning as close to normal as you can. Have water and a snack nearby, and keep a comfort item within reach if it helps your child. Limit distractions such as pets, siblings and the television. If your child usually needs movement breaks, mention that when you set up the evaluation so it can be planned for.

Your part matters too. Some parts of an evaluation involve watching how your child plays and interacts, and MedlinePlus notes that screening often includes questionnaires about development and behavior and questions about family history. Have your folder and notes open, and be ready to answer honestly, including about the hard moments. Try not to coach your child or answer for them while they are being observed.

If your child is under 3 and you have concerns, the CDC says you can call your state's early intervention program yourself, and a doctor's referral is not necessary. Talking with your pediatrician is a good first step too.

How we can help

Locascio Wellness offers a child autism evaluation by secure video. Evaluations are offered only to people who are physically located in Pennsylvania, West Virginia or Arizona during appointments, and for a child that applies to your child. A parent or guardian arranges the evaluation and takes part.

An evaluation usually involves an intake appointment, then one or two sessions to complete the evaluation, then time for the written report. At the moment, the report is usually ready about a month after the first evaluation appointment. The findings are explained in plain language, with time for your questions. If the school or another office asked for the evaluation, ask them what they need before you book. Evaluations are private-pay with a sliding scale available; see what evaluations cost.

To start, send the short evaluation request form, with your child's age and any deadline, or set up a free 15-minute consultation on our booking page. Ongoing support is a separate service: therapists on our team offer child therapy and family therapy by video.

If you or your child is in crisis, call or text 988, or call 911. Locascio Wellness does not provide emergency services.