What happens in a comprehensive assessment? A step-by-step guide for parents

The question we hear most before a first visit: “Will my child have to do something hard?” The answer is no. A comprehensive assessment is a series of guided-play sessions with specialists, and parents leave with a full picture of their child’s abilities, strengths and gaps.

Step 1: the form and the interview

Before the visit we send you the developmental history form: pregnancy and birth, when the child sat, walked and spoke, medical history and school. Then we meet the parents for 30–45 minutes to hear your concerns and what the child does well. This interview guides the rest of the assessment.

Step 2: the assessment sessions

Two to three sessions of 45–60 minutes each, covering:

• Speech and language: comprehension, expression, articulation, social communication.
• Occupational therapy: fine and gross motor skills, sensory integration, self-care.
• Psychological and cognitive: attention, memory, behaviour, IQ testing when needed.
• Academics (for school-age children): reading, writing and maths compared with the grade level.

Step 3: the results meeting

We sit with the parents to explain the results in plain language and hand over a detailed written report suitable for schools and doctors, with recommendations: which services the child needs, how many sessions a week, and what can be done at home. Sometimes we recommend extra assessments outside the center (such as a hearing test).

What to bring

• Any previous medical or psychological reports.
• School reports or teachers’ notes.
• Samples of the child’s writing or homework.
• A list of what worries you most — even if it seems small.

No prior diagnosis and no doctor’s referral are needed to start. The assessment itself decides the next step.