Early Years Developmental Assessment

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The Early Years (6 years and under) are vital in your child’s development.  If you have concerns about your child’s development it is important that they are raised early, as research shows that Early Intervention is the most effective in combating long term difficulties for children.

If you would like your child to be evaluated by our dedicated early intervention team please see the two options below. 

Does your child have...?

More than one of the following:

    • Delayed speech?
    • Delayed gross motor skills?
    • Delayed fine motor skills?
    • Difficulty keeping up with peers at preschool/school?
    • Regular trips and falls?
    • Irregular response to parent calling own name?
    • Reduced auditory comprehension?
    • A floppy appearance?
    • Difficulty maintaining attention/concentration?
    • Instances of regularly being tired more easily than peers doing physical tasks?
    • Sensory sensitivities, ie. reluctant mover, avoids tactile input?
    Assessment

    The Early Years Developmental Assessment is more thorough than the screening and uses standardised assessment tools. An assessment is recommended when there are concerns about your child’s ability to meet expected developmental milestones and perform everyday tasks. The primary aim of the assessment process is to identify a child’s strengths and challenges in a range of developmental domains including cognitive, social, emotional, language, physical development and adaptive behaviours such as self-care and self-direction. The results can assist parents and teachers to provide appropriate and tailored management plans and life-skill programs to maximise a child’s developmental potential. 

    Purposes of Developmental Assessments:

    • Identifying and diagnosing. 
    • Developing individualised management programs: by identifying a child’s strengths and weaknesses, the psychologist can work with parents and teachers to develop interventions to best accommodate a child’s learning and developmental needs.
    • Accessing additional funding or supports at preschool/primary school.

    Assessment Process

    One our our clinical psychology team will carry out an initial consultation. Please note this consultation does not include the child. The clinical psychologist will ask you questions about your family, your child’s history, strengths and areas of concern.  Please bring video footage of your child interacting with peers, any concerning behaviour or delay in development, playing and demonstrating their interests. The clinical psychologist will discuss your assessment options and answer any questions about the assessment process.

    The clinical psychologist will advise the assessment pathway that will suit your child’s needs. 

    TESTING

    Our team are focussed on making the assessment a good experience for your child and supporting them to achieve their best results. 

    TEAM CONFERENCE 

    The team will meet to discuss your child in detail, having multiple perspectives on your child’s strengths and challenges. This is seen around the world as best practise. 

    THE REPORT

    The report will include standardised results, data that compares your child to their similar aged peers, as well as assessment observations. Conclusions and diagnosis will be made if it is appropriate. All reports include conclusions and recommendations. Recommendations also include strategies to address problem areas, as well as how to continue to support areas of strength.

    DEBRIEF

    Parents will meet with the assessing therapist/s to discuss the report and recommendations. This provides a great opportunity for parents to ask any questions.

    Common Questions

    What is the best way to explain the assessment to my child?

    Depending on the child’s age, most children carrying out the Early Years Developmental Assessment are too young to understand. It is best that the child is told they are going to a fun place to meet people they will do activities with. Also ensure they know mummy or daddy can remain in the room to play too.

    What should I bring on the day of the assessment?
    Please bring a snack and water. Ensure your child is dressed in comfortable clothes.
    Who gets the results?
    Parents will get the results first. At the debrief we will discuss and receive your approval to send it to third parties. This could include your family doctor and/or teachers.
    Can my child join the feedback session?

    We feel children doing the Early Years Developmental assessment are too young to join the feedback session.

    How long does it take to get the report?
    Usually about 4 weeks.