Developmental Assessment for Autism | Cadabam’s Child Development Center
Developmental Assessment for Autism is the first step toward understanding your child’s unique strengths and needs. At Cadabams CDC, we combine internationally validated tools with a warm, family-centered approach so that parents feel informed, supported, and confident about next steps.
Overview: Developmental Assessment for Autism at Cadabam’s CDC
Why Early Autism Screening Matters
- Brain plasticity is highest in the early years; targeted interventions started before age 3 show the greatest long-term gains.
- Early screening reduces parental anxiety and replaces uncertainty with clear action plans.
- Schools and therapists can adjust environments sooner, improving social and academic outcomes.
Who Should Consider This Assessment
Parents or pediatricians may request an assessment if a child shows:
- Limited or delayed speech by 18 months.
- Reduced eye contact or name response.
- Repetitive movements, lining up toys, or extreme reactions to sensory input.
- Loss of previously acquired skills.
What to Expect During Your First Visit
- Duration: 60–90 minutes.
- Activities: Parent interview, child observation, and initial screening questionnaires.
- Environment: Sensory-friendly playroom with quiet corners, fidget toys, and adjustable lighting.
- Outcome: Clear explanation of next steps, timelines, and cost estimates before you leave.
Step-by-Step Autism Screening & Diagnostic Process
Step 1: Initial Intake & Parent Interview
- Secure online intake form gathers developmental, medical, and family history.
- Licensed clinician reviews milestones, sleep, feeding, and sensory behaviors.
- Parents receive a checklist one week prior to reduce on-the-spot stress.
Step 2: Standardized Screening Tools (M-CHAT-R, ADOS-2)
- M-CHAT-R: 20-question parent screener for toddlers 16–30 months.
- ADOS-2: Play-based, semi-structured observation used across ages and verbal levels.
- Results are scored immediately; families see a summary graph before leaving.
Step 3: Interdisciplinary Diagnostic Assessment
- Team meeting includes developmental pediatrician, child psychologist, and therapists.
- Speech-language and occupational therapy evaluations occur the same week to avoid delays.
- Cognitive, adaptive, and language tests (e.g., Bayley-III, Vineland-3) complete the picture.
Step 4: Feedback Session & Diagnosis Discussion
- Scheduled within 7 days of testing.
- Diagnosis shared in plain language, with DSM-5 criteria printed for your records.
- Parent questions answered in real time; no jargon, no rush.
Step 5: Personalized Care Plan & Next Steps
- Care plan includes therapy goals, school recommendations, and parent training modules.
- Digital report uploaded to secure portal within 48 hours.
- Scheduling coordinator books first therapy session before you exit the clinic.
Assessment Tools & Techniques We Use
Validated Screening Instruments
- M-CHAT-R, STAT, and CAST for different age brackets.
- Questionnaires translated into 5 regional languages to reduce misinterpretation.
Observational Assessments
- ADOS-2 administered by certified clinicians in a one-way mirror room.
- Structured play sessions recorded (with consent) for micro-analysis of social reciprocity.
Speech-Language & Occupational Therapy Inputs
- SLP evaluates receptive/expressive language, articulation, and pragmatics.
- OT assesses fine motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living independence.
- Both reports integrate into the final diagnostic summary—no need for extra visits.
Meet Our Multidisciplinary Team
Developmental Pediatricians
- Oversee medical rule-outs and coordinate care with pediatric neurologists when needed.
- Provide guidance on sleep, feeding, and medication options if relevant.
Child Clinical Psychologists
- Conduct cognitive and adaptive testing.
- Design early-intervention behavior plans rooted in ABA principles.
Speech & Occupational Therapists
- Deliver immediate therapy recommendations.
- Offer parent coaching sessions on communication and sensory regulation strategies.
How to Prepare for Your Child’s Appointment
Documents to Bring
- Immunization chart and growth records.
- Previous school or therapy reports.
- Videos showing typical play or concerning behaviors (optional but helpful).
What Parents & Kids Should Expect
- For kids: Play-based tasks, breaks, and a sticker reward at the end.
- For parents: Comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and a dedicated counsellor on standby.
Tips for a Stress-Free Visit
- Schedule during your child’s best time of day.
- Bring a comfort item: favorite snack, toy, or noise-canceling headphones.
- Use the “social story” PDF we email you 3 days before the visit to set expectations.