Questions to Ask During the Autism Evaluation Process
When it comes to seeking an autism evaluation for your child, it’s essential to be well-prepared. Asking the right questions during the autism evaluation process can help you gain a better understanding of your child’s behaviors, needs, and the available interventions. Not only will this ensure your confidence in the evaluation, it will also ensure you have all the necessary information to support your child’s development.
1. How long have you been conducting autism evaluations?
It’s important to know the qualifications and experience of the person conducting the evaluation. Inquire about their credentials, such as their training in facilitating autism assessments and their experience working with children on the spectrum. This will help you gauge their expertise and ease any worries you may have about the evaluation and its results.
2. What autism assessment tools and methods will be used during the evaluation?
Different assessment tools and techniques are available for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Ask about the specific assessments the evaluator plans to use. Common tools include the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). A comprehensive evaluation should include more than one assessment tool. It may also be helpful to explain to your child what they can expect before or at the beginning of their assessment.
3. How long will the autism evaluation take?
Understanding the timeline for the evaluation is essential for planning and making necessary arrangements. While some autism assessments can take place in one day, some evaluators require multiple sessions. Ask the evaluator about the expected duration of the evaluation process, including the number of sessions required. This will help you schedule appointments and manage your child’s expectations during the evaluation period.
4. How will the evaluation results be communicated?
Find out how the evaluation results will be communicated to you. Ask if there will be a separate meeting to discuss the evaluator’s findings or if they will be sending a detailed report. Understanding how the results will be conveyed allows you to prepare yourself and ensures you have a clear understanding of your child’s diagnosis and any recommendations for intervention. Be sure to also ask the timeframe for delivering the results of the assessment.
5. Should I discuss the diagnosis with my child?
Deciding whether or not to discuss the diagnosis with your child is a personal decision that depends on various factors, such as their age, level of understanding, and individual needs. Ask your evaluator how the conversation should be facilitated after the assessment so the information is tailored in a way that is age-appropriate and easy for them to comprehend. Discussing the diagnosis can help your child gain a better understanding of themselves and foster a sense of acceptance.
6. What therapies and resources do you recommend for autism?
When it comes to recommending therapies and resources for autism, your evaluator will consider the individual needs and strengths of each child. Depending on the severity of your child’s autism they may recommend only Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy or a combination of multiple therapies like speech and occupational therapy. Also ask if educational support like specialized classes will be necessary. Lastly, be sure to inquire about how these services will benefit your child and how long they think your child will need them.
7. How will an autism diagnosis impact my child’s life?
Receiving an autism diagnosis can have a significant impact on your child’s life, but it’s important to remember that each individual’s experience is unique. Ask your evaluator about how this diagnosis will impact your child throughout their childhood and teenage years. This will help you and other family members know what to expect and how you can foster a supportive environment at home. Be sure to also ask what modifications may need to occur at school so you can discuss them with your child’s administration and/or teachers.