What to Expect During an Autism Evaluation at Anchor Excelled Learners
Rather than relying on a single test, we use several evidence-based assessment tools that work together to help us better understand your child's development.
Our Comprehensive Evaluation Process
Every evaluation begins by getting to know your child and your family. Parents know their children best, so your observations and concerns are an essential part of the evaluation.
During the assessment, our clinician gathers information through direct observation, standardized assessments, and caregiver interviews. Together, these pieces help determine whether your child's developmental profile is consistent with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
The ADOS-2: Observing Communication and Social Skills
One of the primary tools we use is the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2), often considered one of the most widely used standardized assessments for evaluating autism.
During the ADOS-2, your child participates in a variety of structured and play-based activities that allow the clinician to observe:
Social communication
Eye contact
Conversation skills
Imaginative play
Social interaction
Repetitive behaviors or restricted interests
The activities are designed to feel natural and engaging while giving the clinician opportunities to observe behaviors that may be associated with autism.
The Vineland-3: Understanding Everyday Living Skills
Children develop differently in many areas beyond communication. The Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Third Edition (Vineland-3), helps us understand how your child functions in daily life.
This assessment is completed through a caregiver interview or questionnaire and measures skills such as:
Communication
Daily living skills
Socialization
Motor skills (when appropriate)
Independence at home and in the community
The Vineland-3 helps identify both strengths and areas where additional support may be beneficial.
The BPIS: Understanding Behavior
Behavior is another important part of a comprehensive evaluation. The Behavior Problem Inventory Scale (BPIS) helps identify behaviors that may interfere with learning, communication, or everyday activities.
This assessment provides information about behaviors such as:
Repetitive behaviors
Self-injurious behaviors
Aggressive behaviors
Challenging behaviors that may affect daily functioning
Understanding these behaviors allows us to make more individualized recommendations for intervention and support.
Bringing It All Together
No single assessment determines whether a child has autism. Instead, the information from the ADOS-2, Vineland-3, BPIS, developmental history, caregiver input, and clinical observations is carefully reviewed together.
This comprehensive approach helps ensure that recommendations are based on your child's complete developmental profile rather than one assessment alone.
What Happens After the Evaluation?
Once the evaluation is complete, we fax the findings to your child's pediatrician, who fills out the DSM-5 and then faxes us their official diagnosis. We then reach back out to you to answer your questions and discuss next steps.
Depending on the findings, recommendations may include:
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy
Speech therapy
Occupational therapy
School-based supports
Community resources
Follow up with your pediatrician or other healthcare providers
your evaluation report will also be shared with your child's healthcare provider to support ongoing care and treatment planning by providing the official diagnosis.
please check out our evaluation page to better understand the process!
Our Goal Is to Support Your Family
We know that seeking an autism evaluation can come with many emotions and questions. Our team is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care while helping families better understand their child's unique strengths and needs.
At Anchor Excelled Learners, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to reach their fullest potential. Whether you're seeking answers, peace of mind, or guidance for the future, we're honored to be part of your family's journey.
If you have concerns about your child's development or would like to learn more about our autism evaluations, contact Anchor Excelled Learners today. We're here to answer your questions and help you take the next step with confidence.