What Is an Autism Assessment?
A comprehensive autism evaluation is conducted by a licensed child psychologist or pediatric neuropsychologist and typically includes:
1. Parent Interview
A psychologist will ask detailed questions about your child’s development, behavior, and medical history.
2. Direct Testing with Your Child
Standardized tools such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) are used to assess:
✅ Social communication skills
✅ Play and imaginative abilities
✅ Repetitive behaviors
Many of the assessments we conduct incorporate play, making the experience as engaging and enjoyable as possible so your child feels comfortable, participates fully, and demonstrates their natural abilities.
3. Observations in Different Settings
Some children behave differently at home vs. school. Teachers or caregivers may provide input to ensure a well-rounded assessment.
4. Additional Evaluations
Depending on your child’s needs, a full neuropsychological assessment may be recommended to evaluate learning, attention, and emotional development.
At The Center for Pediatric Neurodiversity, we provide comprehensive autism assessments designed to give parents clear answers and a personalized action plan for their child.
Why an Autism Diagnosis Matters
Many parents hesitate to seek an autism evaluation, fearing a diagnosis might label their child. However, early diagnosis can be a tool for helping children thrive. Benefits of diagnosis include:
💡 Intervention – Access to therapies such as speech, occupational, and behavioral therapy can improve communication and social skills.
💡 Personalized Support – A diagnosis helps parents, teachers, and therapists understand a child’s specific needs.
💡 School Accommodations – Children with autism may qualify for Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 Plans for extra classroom support.
💡 Improved Social and Emotional Development – Learning coping strategies early can prevent frustration, anxiety, and behavioral challenges.
If you're uncertain about your child's development, trust your instincts and seek a professional evaluation. The sooner your child gets support, the greater the impact on their long-term success. If you’re concerned about your child’s behavior or social development, scheduling an autism evaluation is the first step toward understanding their needs.
Here’s How to Get Started:
1️⃣ Schedule a Consultation – Contact our clinic to discuss your concerns with a licensed child psychologist.
2️⃣ Comprehensive Assessment – Our team will conduct a thorough evaluation tailored to your child’s strengths and challenges.
3️⃣ Personalized Action Plan – We provide a detailed report with diagnostic results and recommendations for next steps including therapy, school support, and at-home strategies.
📞 Call us today at (617) 202-3330
🌐 Visit our website at pediatricneurodiversity.com
📩 Email us at info@pediatricneurodiversity.com
FAQs About Autism Assessments
1. At what age can autism be diagnosed?
Autism can be diagnosed early, though many children are diagnosed between ages 2-5.
2. What happens after an autism diagnosis?
After diagnosis, we provide a thorough report with customized recommendations for therapy, school accommodations, and parent support.
3. How long does an autism evaluation take?
A full assessment usually takes 2-4 sessions, including parent interviews, child testing, and follow-up feedback.