Prepare Your Notes of Behaviors

During your child’s assessment, you will be asked questions to gain an understanding of your child’s development. For example, a questionnaire may ask if your child makes eye contact with you when they want something or when they talk to you. Before the assessment, jot down any concerns or issues you’ve noticed in your child’s behavior. These details can come in handy throughout the scoring process. We look at the answers you provide and evaluate the criteria for each category of the ASD assessment.

Gather Relevant Information

Do you have any information that could assist with a diagnostic evaluation? Bring any relevant paperwork such as reports from previous services, school or therapy documents, and medical records. Additionally, feel free to include any compiled notes from daycare staff, teachers, and other caregivers. These notes can help paint a picture of how your child behaves in different environments.

Prepare Your Child

Before your appointment, sit down in a space where your child can feel calm and comfortable. Describe the evaluation experience using simple terms and descriptions. Talk about how the process offers an opportunity to share their feelings, thoughts, and experiences. To make them feel more excited and positive about the overall process, consider sharing an incentive. You could offer one of their favorite treats or a new toy as a reward for their participation. The professionals conducting the assessments are there to support and help them.

Plan for Comfort

The night before your appointment, ensure your child gets a good night’s sleep. Being well-rested can help them feel better throughout the process. Try to maintain the same routines as much as possible that day and have your child eat before the assessments so they’re happier and can concentrate better. You can bring items like your child’s favorite blanket, toys or snacks. Having these items will help your child feel more comfortable throughout the process.

Stay Supportive

When you stay positive and calm, the diagnostic process is easier. Give your child a friendly smile and words of encouragement. Let them know everything’s OK and they’re doing a great job!

At Behavioral Innovations, we currently offer a flat fee for diagnostic evaluations. The straightforward pricing includes the initial consultation, assessments and observations, feedback sessions, and the written report.

Our company aims to include our diagnostic services under many insurance providers in the future. At this time, our diagnostic services require clients to pay the expenses out-of-pocket.

Many insurance companies may require a re-evaluation to continue receiving insurance coverage for related services. Usually, the diagnostic reports are valid for around three years. It’s best to schedule an appointment months before a report expires so you can avoid any gaps in care coverage.

Professionals at Behavioral Innovations can guide you through options for the next steps. We offer applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with ASD. The scientific approaches aim to help children improve their lives and reach their full potential. You can read our article about ABA therapy to learn more.

With the right support and interventions, some children diagnosed with ASD can show positive changes and improvements over a significant amount of time. Generally, ASD requires long-term support and is considered a condition that an individual may experience throughout their entire life.