Key Points:
- Preparing for an autism evaluation in Virginia involves gathering detailed observations, past records, and completing caregiver questionnaires.
- Parents play a critical role in the evaluation process and can help guide clinicians by sharing insights into daily behavior and routines.
- ABA therapy in Virginia, through providers like Storybook, often begins with this diagnostic step to build a personalized treatment plan.
Preparing for your child’s autism evaluation can feel like stepping into unknown territory. You’re likely juggling emotions—concern, uncertainty, maybe even relief that someone is finally taking a closer look. If you’re pursuing ABA therapy in Virginia, this evaluation is a crucial first step. It’s what helps determine the most appropriate interventions and support your child may need.
At Storybook, we understand how overwhelming this process can be for families. The good news? With a bit of preparation, you can walk into your child’s evaluation feeling more confident, informed, and ready to advocate for their needs.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what to expect and how to prepare.
Understanding the Purpose of the Evaluation
Before diving into the checklist, it helps to understand what the autism evaluation is trying to accomplish.
An autism evaluation is not just about labeling behaviors—it’s a comprehensive assessment of your child’s development. Licensed professionals use structured tools to understand how your child communicates, behaves, interacts socially, and processes the world around them.
In Virginia, this evaluation can be conducted by developmental pediatricians, psychologists, or multidisciplinary teams depending on where you go. The goal is to gather enough clinical evidence to determine if your child meets criteria for an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis and, if so, what next steps are appropriate.
Whether you’re seeking services through your school district or looking into in-home ABA therapy, the evaluation is the starting point.
What Information Will Be Needed?
Being well-prepared with documentation and observations can make the entire process smoother and more efficient. Here’s what most providers will want to review.
1. Medical and Developmental History
Bring a summary of your child’s milestones and medical history, including:
- Prenatal and birth details (e.g., premature birth, complications)
- Age of first words, crawling, walking, etc.
- Medical diagnoses, medications, or hospitalizations
- Hearing or vision screenings
These help clinicians understand if developmental delays are isolated or part of a broader pattern.
2. Behavior Observations
Write down specific examples of behaviors that concern you. Focus on what happens, how often, and in what context.
Examples:
- “He lines up toys instead of playing with them.”
- “She avoids eye contact and doesn’t respond to her name.”
- “He has meltdowns during transitions and cannot be comforted easily.”
This real-world information offers a clearer picture than a checkbox ever could.
3. Family History
If there’s a history of autism, ADHD, anxiety, or speech delays in the family, include it. Genetics often play a role in neurodevelopmental conditions.
4. Past Evaluations or Services
Include any:
- Early Intervention or school evaluations (IFSP, IEP)
- Speech or occupational therapy reports
- Psychological testing
- Pediatrician notes referencing developmental concerns
Even if you think something’s outdated, it may still provide valuable context.
What to Expect During the Evaluation Process
Autism evaluations in Virginia typically follow a multi-step process. It’s not just one appointment and done. Depending on your provider, here’s what may happen:
Initial Intake or Parent Interview
You’ll be asked questions about your child’s birth, development, behaviors, and family history. This usually happens without your child present.
Standardized Questionnaires
Parents and sometimes teachers will complete forms like:
- The Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)
- The Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS)
- Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales
Answer honestly, not how you think it should be. These are meant to reflect your child’s current behaviors, not ideal outcomes.
Direct Interaction with Your Child
The clinician will use structured tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS). These sessions are play-based and measure things like:
- Communication
- Eye contact
- Pretend play
- Flexibility in thinking
- Response to social cues
It may feel a bit like your child is just playing—but the clinician is observing a lot in the process.
How to Prepare Your Child
You don’t need to prep your child for a test. But you can reduce anxiety and make the process smoother with some thoughtful steps.
1. Explain What to Expect (In Their Terms)
Use simple language:
“You’re going to play some games with a new friend to help us learn more about how your brain works.”
Avoid words like “test” or “doctor” if those bring up anxiety.
2. Keep Routines Consistent
Stick to your normal morning routine the day of the appointment. Feed them their usual breakfast, and let them bring a familiar toy or comfort item if allowed.
3. Sleep and Snacks Matter
Make sure they’re rested and bring snacks or water. A tired or hungry child is less likely to show their best self.
4. Don’t Coach
Let the clinician see your child as they are. It may feel tempting to prompt or help them during the session—but resist the urge. Authentic behavior is key to an accurate diagnosis.
Your Role as the Parent: What You Can Do to Help
You’re not just a bystander in this process—you’re the expert on your child.
Clinicians rely heavily on parent reports to fill in the gaps of what they don’t see in one session. That’s why it’s so valuable to provide detailed, consistent, and honest input throughout the process.
Here are some ways you can help:
- Journal in advance: Keep notes for 5–7 days on key behaviors, language use, meltdowns, and what triggers them.
- Bring videos: Short clips of specific behaviors (e.g., repetitive actions, unusual speech patterns, or play style) can be helpful, especially if they don’t show up during the appointment.
- Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask why a certain test is used or what a score means.
- Take care of yourself: Processing this information as a parent can be emotional. Give yourself space and support, too.
What Happens After the Evaluation?
Once the evaluation is complete, the provider will typically offer:
- A formal diagnosis, if applicable
- A written report detailing strengths, challenges, and test results
- Recommendations for services, such as ABA therapy, speech therapy, or special education support
If your child is diagnosed with autism, this report becomes your starting point. It’s what insurance companies and therapy providers (like us at Storybook) will use to create an individualized treatment plan.
If the evaluation indicates other challenges—such as sensory processing disorder, ADHD, or global developmental delay—those may also be included with relevant next steps.
Why This Evaluation Matters in the Bigger Picture
This evaluation isn’t just about getting a label. It’s about opening doors. With a formal diagnosis in hand, you can:
- Access ABA therapy in Virginia through providers like Storybook
- Qualify for school-based supports or accommodations under IDEA or Section 504
- Pursue insurance coverage for therapies and interventions
- Gain clarity and understanding about your child’s development
Early identification gives your child the opportunity to build key skills during formative years—and it gives you tools to better support them at home and in the community.
Final Thoughts and Next Steps
Getting ready for your child’s autism evaluation might feel like a lot, but remember this: preparation is about setting the stage for insight, not perfection. There’s no “right” way to show up—just be honest, thorough, and engaged.
At Storybook, we offer ABA therapy in Virginia designed to support families from the moment of diagnosis onward. If your child has recently been evaluated or is scheduled for an upcoming assessment, we’re here to help guide you through what comes next.
Contact us today to learn how our ABA therapy in Virginia can support your child’s growth, skill development, and independence—starting right from where they are.
