Developmental Assessment

Assessment for Autism, ADHD, Speech Delay and Learning Concerns

Every child develops at their own pace. However, some children may experience persistent differences or delays in communication, learning, attention, behaviour, movement or social interaction that affect their progress at home, in school or in everyday activities.

A developmental assessment helps parents better understand their child’s individual strengths, areas of difficulty and support needs. It is not based on one behaviour or a single short observation. The assessment considers the child’s development over time and gathers information from the people and environments that are part of the child’s daily life.

When May a Developmental Assessment Be Helpful?

Parents may consider an assessment when they notice concerns such as:

• Speech or language delay

• Difficulty understanding or following instructions

• Limited eye contact or social interaction

• Reduced interest in playing with other children

• Repetitive movements, routines or interests

• Sensitivity to sounds, textures, touch or changes in routine

• Hyperactivity, impulsivity or a short attention span

• Difficulty remaining seated or completing age-appropriate tasks

• Learning difficulties involving reading, writing, spelling or mathematics

• Concerns related to dyslexia or another specific learning disorder

• Difficulty with emotional regulation or behaviour

• Delayed self-care or daily living skills

• Loss of communication or developmental skills previously acquired

These signs do not automatically confirm autism spectrum disorder, ADHD or a learning disorder. Similar concerns may also be associated with hearing, vision, sleep, language, emotional, educational or other medical factors.

What Does the Assessment Include?

Depending on your child’s age and presenting concerns, the assessment may include:

• Detailed pregnancy, birth, medical and developmental history

• Review of speech, language and communication

• Observation of play and social interaction

• Attention, activity level and behavioural assessment

• Review of learning progress and school performance

• Assessment of daily living and self-care skills

• Review of sleep, feeding and sensory concerns

• Feedback from parents, teachers or caregivers

• Use of age-appropriate developmental screening tools or questionnaires

• Physical and neurological examination when indicated

Parents may be asked to bring school reports, teacher feedback, therapy reports, videos of relevant behaviour and examples of the child’s written or schoolwork.

Assessment for Autism and ADHD

An autism assessment considers social communication, interaction, play, behaviour, interests and sensory patterns. An ADHD assessment considers persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, including whether these behaviours occur in more than one setting and interfere with the child’s daily functioning.

A diagnosis is not made based on one symptom alone. Information from home, school and other caregivers may be needed to form a more complete picture.

Assessment for Dyslexia and Learning Difficulties

Children with reading, writing or learning concerns may require evaluation of their language, attention, hearing, vision and developmental history. A comprehensive learning evaluation may also involve collaboration with the school, educational psychologist or other relevant professionals. Dyslexia cannot be confirmed through a single medical test.

Planning the Next Step

Following the assessment, the paediatrician will explain the findings and discuss appropriate next steps. These may include monitoring, school strategies, parent guidance or referral to professionals such as a speech and language therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, educational specialist or developmental service.

Early identification allows support to begin sooner and helps parents and teachers respond to the child’s needs more effectively.

If you have concerns about your child’s communication, learning, attention, behaviour or social development, an assessment can provide greater clarity and guide the next appropriate step.