Getting Started: Why Early Evaluation Matters
If you're worried about your child's development and think they might have autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it's important to have a doctor do an evaluation. Kids with ASD need extra help, and new screening tools have made early identification of the condition easier.
The earlier treatment for kids with ASD starts, the better. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your child's development, communication skills, and overall quality of life.
This guide will walk you through the steps to take if you suspect your child might have autism, from talking to your doctor to accessing free evaluations and finding the right support services.
Step 1: Talk to Your Child's Doctor
The first step is to share your concerns with your child's pediatrician or primary care doctor. Being clear and prepared can help ensure your concerns are taken seriously.
What to Share
- • Describe specific behaviors you've noticed
- • Share when you first noticed concerns
- • Explain how these behaviors affect daily life
- • Bring videos of unusual behavior if you have them
- • Note any family history of developmental delays
If Your Doctor Doesn't Listen
- • Keep asking and advocating for your child
- • Request a developmental screening
- • Ask for a referral to a specialist
- • Consider finding a new doctor if needed
- • Trust your instincts as a parent
💡 Tip: Using Videos
If you have videos of any unusual behavior you've noticed at home, showing them to your doctor can be very helpful. Videos can capture behaviors that might not be visible during a brief office visit.
Step 2: Find a Specialist
If your child's doctor finds a concern, they probably will refer you to a specialist for further help. It's important to find the right professional who has experience with autism and developmental delays.
Types of Specialists
Child Psychologist
Specializes in child development, behavior, and psychological testing. Can conduct comprehensive autism evaluations.
Developmental Pediatrician
Medical doctor specializing in child development and developmental disorders. Can diagnose and coordinate care.
Child Neurologist
Specializes in brain and nervous system disorders. May be involved if there are neurological concerns.
Speech-Language Pathologist
Evaluates communication skills and can identify language delays that may be related to autism.
⚠️ Important: Waiting Lists
Many specialists have waiting lists, especially those who specialize in autism evaluations. If there's a waiting list, be sure to get on it right away. You can always cancel if you find another provider sooner, but getting on multiple lists can help you get an appointment faster.
Step 3: Get an Autism Evaluation
An autism evaluation will check your child for signs of autism. The results can help you get special therapies, like speech therapy or occupational therapy. It also might include special tests and observations.
What to Ask Before the Evaluation
Check with the specialist ahead of time to understand what kind of tests they use. This helps you prepare and know what to expect.
- • What assessment tools will be used? (e.g., ADOS-2, ADI-R)
- • How long will the evaluation take?
- • What should I bring to the appointment?
- • Will there be observations of my child's behavior?
- • When will I receive the results?
Free Evaluations for Very Young Children
If your child is very young, all states offer free evaluations for developmental delays through programs like "early intervention" or Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
How to Access:
- • Contact your local county office for early intervention services
- • Ask your pediatrician for a referral
- • These services are available from birth to age 3
- • Evaluations are comprehensive and free of charge
- • Services may include therapy and family support
Free Evaluations for Children 3 Years and Older
If your child is 3 years or older, you can get a free developmental evaluation from your local school system.
How to Access:
- • Contact your county school board
- • Connect with their evaluation team
- • Request a comprehensive developmental evaluation
- • The school system must evaluate if you request it
- • Results can help determine eligibility for special education services
Step 4: Explore Therapy Options
Many kids with developmental delays or autism benefit from various types of therapy. Most insurance plans cover these services.
Speech Therapy
Helps children develop communication skills, including:
- • Language development
- • Social communication
- • Conversation skills
- • Understanding and using language
- • Alternative communication methods
Occupational Therapy
Helps children develop daily living skills, including:
- • Fine motor skills
- • Sensory processing
- • Self-care skills
- • Play skills
- • Social interaction
Physical Therapy
Helps children develop movement skills, including:
- • Gross motor skills
- • Balance and coordination
- • Strength and endurance
- • Motor planning
- • Posture and positioning
Finding Providers
- • Ask your doctor for a referral
- • Check with your insurance company to find in-network providers
- • Contact your local early intervention program (for children under 3)
- • Reach out to your school district (for children 3 and older)
- • Look for providers certified in autism-specific therapies (e.g., ABA, DIR/Floortime)
Step 5: Check Your Insurance Coverage
Understanding your insurance coverage is crucial for accessing services. Even if your child doesn't have an autism diagnosis yet, your insurance provider might still cover some services.
What to Ask Your Insurance
- • What autism-related services are covered?
- • Do you cover parent counseling or training?
- • What behavioral therapy services are available?
- • Are there limits on therapy sessions per year?
- • What is the process for getting services approved?
- • Which providers are in-network?
Common Coverage
- • Many plans pay for 1 hour of behavioral therapy each week
- • Parent counseling or training may be covered
- • Speech, occupational, and physical therapy are often covered
- • Diagnostic evaluations may be covered
- • Some states have autism insurance mandates
Step 6: Activities at Home
You can do many fun activities at home to help your child with language and social skills. These activities can complement professional therapy and support your child's development.
Floor Play Together
Play on the floor together: Let your child choose and lead play activities in 20-minute sessions.
Benefits:
- • Follows your child's interests
- • Builds connection and trust
- • Encourages communication
- • Supports social development
- • Creates opportunities for interaction
Tips:
- • Get down on your child's level
- • Let them choose the activity
- • Follow their lead and interests
- • Keep sessions to 20 minutes
- • Make it fun and pressure-free
Teaching Skills Step-by-Step
Teach your child a specific skill by breaking training into simple steps. You show and teach a step, and after your child learns how to do it, offer praise and move to the next step.
How to Do It:
- • Break the skill into small steps
- • Show your child how to do each step
- • Give them time to practice
- • Offer praise when they succeed
- • Move to the next step only when ready
Examples:
- • Washing hands: turn on water, get soap, rub hands, rinse, dry
- • Getting dressed: put on shirt, then pants, then socks
- • Brushing teeth: get toothbrush, put on toothpaste, brush, rinse
Step 7: Explore State Support
Many states have agencies that help families with autism. These agencies can provide information, resources, and support services.
What State Agencies May Offer
Services:
- • Information and referral services
- • Support groups for families
- • Advocacy assistance
- • Resource directories
- • Training and workshops
How to Find:
- • Search for "[Your State] autism services"
- • Contact your state's Department of Health
- • Reach out to your state's Department of Education
- • Ask your pediatrician for local resources
- • Contact national autism organizations
What Else Should I Know?
You'll see a lot of information online about autism. Not all of it is reliable, so turn to trusted sources for accurate information and support.
Trusted Sources
- The Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC)
Federal advisory committee that coordinates autism research and services.
- The Association for Autism and Neurodiversity (AANE)
Provides support, education, and resources for individuals with autism and their families.
- The Autism Society
National organization providing information, advocacy, and support for the autism community.
- Autism Speaks
Organization dedicated to promoting solutions for the needs of people with autism and their families.
Evaluating Online Information
- • Look for information from medical and professional organizations
- • Check the credentials of authors
- • Be cautious of "miracle cures" or quick fixes
- • Verify claims with multiple trusted sources
- • Consult with your child's healthcare providers
- • Join reputable support groups and communities
- • Remember that every child with autism is unique
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an autism evaluation take?
Autism evaluations typically take several hours and may be completed over multiple appointments. The exact length depends on the assessment tools used and the child's needs. Some evaluations can be done in one 2-4 hour session, while others may require multiple visits.
What if I can't afford an evaluation?
Free evaluations are available through early intervention programs (for children under 3) and school systems (for children 3 and older). Contact your local county office or school district to learn about free evaluation services. Many insurance plans also cover diagnostic evaluations.
How do I know if my child needs an evaluation?
If you have concerns about your child's development, communication, social interaction, or behavior, it's worth discussing with your pediatrician. Common early signs include delayed speech, limited eye contact, repetitive behaviors, difficulty with social interaction, and sensory sensitivities. Trust your instincts and seek an evaluation if you're concerned.
What happens after my child is diagnosed with autism?
After a diagnosis, you'll work with your healthcare team to develop a treatment plan. This typically includes therapies (speech, occupational, behavioral), educational support, and family resources. Early intervention services can begin immediately, and you'll have access to more specialized support and services.
Can my child still get therapy without a formal diagnosis?
Yes, many children receive therapy services for developmental delays without a formal autism diagnosis. Early intervention programs and school systems provide services based on developmental needs, not just diagnoses. Insurance may also cover some therapies for developmental delays.
What if I disagree with the evaluation results?
If you disagree with evaluation results, you have the right to seek a second opinion. You can request another evaluation from a different provider. For school-based evaluations, you have the right to an independent educational evaluation (IEE) at public expense under certain circumstances.
How can I prepare my child for an evaluation?
Prepare your child by explaining what will happen in simple terms. Bring comfort items, snacks, and activities your child enjoys. Make sure your child is well-rested and has eaten. Share information about your child's preferences, sensitivities, and communication style with the evaluator beforehand.
Key Takeaways
Early evaluation is crucial - The earlier autism is identified and treatment begins, the better the outcomes for your child.
Advocate for your child - Trust your instincts and keep asking questions if you have concerns about your child's development.
Free evaluations are available - Early intervention programs and school systems offer free developmental evaluations.
Multiple therapy options exist - Speech, occupational, and physical therapy can all support your child's development.
Check your insurance - Many plans cover therapy services and parent training, even without a formal diagnosis.
Home activities matter - Simple activities like floor play and step-by-step teaching can support your child's development.
Use trusted sources - Turn to reputable organizations for accurate information about autism and available resources.
You're not alone - Many families face similar challenges, and support is available through state agencies and national organizations.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your child's development or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.
Reference: Information adapted from KidsHealth - I Think My Child Might Have Autism. What Should I Do? (Medically reviewed by: Leslie A. Gavin, PhD, Date reviewed: August 2024)