Does My Child Need to be Assessed?

If you feel your child might need to be assessed, please ask —
We are here to help you understand the process and determine whether or not you should move forward.
We will guide you through each step to make the best decision for your child’s needs.

Signs That a Child May Need to Be Assessed:

  • Missing developmental milestones beyond the typical range (a few months difference is normal, but significant delays need attention).

  • Falling behind in basic skills like walking, talking, reading, writing, counting, or following basic instructions.

  • Struggling more than peers in areas like communication, social interaction, or emotional regulation.

  • Teachers expressing concern, but the school is unable to act because your child is not “two years behind” yet.

  • Parent concerns that something "feels off," even if it’s difficult to explain — you know your child best.

  • Difficulty transitioning from learning basic skills to using those skills independently (especially around kindergarten through third grade).

Important:
Children learn at different rates, and minor differences are normal. However, developmental guidelines exist for a reason — they are stepping stones, and missing important ones can make future learning much harder.
Early intervention can make a tremendous difference.

Understanding the Assessment Process

Steps to Begin the Assessment and Support Process

If your child does not have an IEP (Individualized Education Plan):

  1. Talk to your pediatrician about specific concerns you are seeing at home and at school.

    • Be specific about what milestones are delayed or what behaviors you are noticing.

  2. Ask for a referral to a developmental pediatrician.

    • This is a specialist who can assess whether your child is meeting developmental expectations.

  3. Follow the developmental pediatrician’s recommendations.

    • They may recommend therapies, services, or further evaluations, depending on what they observe.

  4. We can help you navigate this process.

    • Whether it’s scheduling appointments, understanding paperwork, or interpreting reports, we are here for you.

If your child already has an IEP:

  • Review the IEP carefully to understand what the team has documented.

  • If you feel the plan does not accurately describe your child, you have the right to request clarification or additional evaluations.

  • Documentation is key — always make sure everything discussed or promised is put in writing.

  • We can support you in reviewing the IEP, attending meetings, or preparing for upcoming evaluations.

Identifying Areas of Concern

Through assessments, we can pinpoint specific areas where your child may require additional support. Whether it's behavior challenges, academic struggles, or the need for accommodations and modifications, our assessments will help us tailor our services to meet your child's individual needs.

Empowering Parents with Information

As a parent, understanding your child's needs is essential for advocating on their behalf. Our assessment process not only provides valuable insights into your child's strengths and challenges but also equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their education and well-being.

Contact Us Today!

If you have any concerns about your child's development or behavior, don't hesitate to reach out to us for a consultation.