What is a developmental assessment?
A developmental assessment is a structured process used to understand how a child is developing across different areas of everyday functioning.
Depending on the reason for referral, an assessment may look at areas such as communication, learning, movement, play, social interaction, behaviour, emotional regulation, independence and daily living skills.
The purpose is not simply to identify difficulties. A good assessment also helps build a clearer picture of the child's strengths, preferences and the types of support that may be helpful.
Why might a child be referred for assessment?
Families or professionals may seek an assessment when there are questions about a child's development or participation.
Who may be involved?
The professionals involved depend on the child's needs and the purpose of the assessment.
This may include a paediatrician, psychologist, occupational therapist, speech pathologist or other appropriately qualified health professionals.
Sometimes one professional completes an assessment, while in other situations information may be gathered from several professionals to develop a broader picture of the child.
What information may be considered?
An assessment may involve talking with parents or carers, observing the child, completing structured activities and reviewing information from kindergarten, school or other professionals.
Families may also be asked about pregnancy and birth history, developmental milestones, health history, communication, behaviour, routines and how the child manages everyday activities.
Not every assessment includes every one of these elements. The process should be appropriate to the individual child and the questions being explored.
Does an assessment always lead to a diagnosis?
No. A developmental assessment does not automatically result in a diagnosis.
Sometimes an assessment identifies areas where a child would benefit from support without identifying a specific condition. In other situations, further assessment may be recommended.
Where diagnostic assessment is being considered, families should be clear about which professional is qualified to diagnose the condition being investigated.
How can parents prepare?
It can help to write down the things you have noticed about your child's development, including their strengths as well as the areas you are concerned about.
Bringing relevant reports, school or kindergarten feedback, previous assessment results and a list of questions can also make the appointment more useful.
Parents know their child in ways that professionals cannot, so your observations and experiences are an important part of the assessment process.
Support at Spriggle Kids
Spriggle Kids supports families who are trying to understand their child's development and work out what support may be appropriate.
Depending on the child's needs and the services available, this may include allied-health assessment, therapy or guidance about possible next steps.
Important information
This guide provides general information only and is not a diagnostic tool or a substitute for individual medical, developmental or psychological advice. If you are concerned about your child's development, speak with an appropriately qualified health professional.