It is common for families to have to wait weeks to months for a diagnostic evaluation after a parent, doctor or teacher notices behaviours that indicate a child may be affected by Autism and many parents are troubled by this question.
Here are five things that are strongly recommended:
This will help you develop a list of questions for the visit and prepare to take action if your child is diagnosed with ASD. Read as much about Autism, gather authentic information to know more about it Click here.
Collect all your child's medical records and any previous developmental or behavioural evaluations your child has received. When you go for a consultation you might also want to bring your own notes on your child's behaviour, as you observe it in different places and with different people. It can also help to jot down some thoughts on what you consider to be your child's strengths and weaknesses. If teachers have provided any feedback, it is good to carry that as well. Bring this folder of records and notes with you to the evaluation.
Some evaluations are done by a team of specialists, others by a single professional. In general, a developmental paediatrician, child psychiatrist, child neurologist or child psychologist is the best qualified to make a diagnosis . However with training, other medical providers too can competently conduct the evaluation. Particularly in an area where there are none of the above professionals available, it is important to find out the local organisation/NGO who is equipped in making the diagnosis and also who you feel most comfortable with.
The evaluation process will involve an interview with you in addition to observation of and interaction with your child. Since there is no blood test, X-ray or radiological test that can confirm a diagnosis, the evaluation should involve direct interaction between the provider and your child. During this evaluation, you'll be asked questions about your child's behaviour and development. In addition, you may be asked to fill out one or more "checklists." It can feel like a lot of questions! Just remember that this information helps the professional make the most accurate and helpful diagnosis. The gold standard or most reliable way to diagnose a structured, play-based assessment called the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS). Often the professional may perform a shorter and more informal play based assessment of your child to look at how he or she plays, interacts and communicates. Your child may also complete one or more cognitive, or "thinking skill" tests.
You should have a chance to meet with the professionals who performed your child's evaluation team to discuss the assessment and diagnosis. You should also receive their written report. For more: http://www.autismspeaks.org
Most parents find the diagnosis process emotional and even a little overwhelming. Rather than going alone, consider inviting someone you trust to accompany you and help take notes on what was said and make sure your questions get answered.
Whether or not your child is diagnosed with Autism, the evaluation may reveal developmental delays that would benefit from intervention services such as speech, occupational and physical therapy.
Therapy helps, but as parents, you can help your child too.