I’ve Scheduled a Speech Evaluation for My Child. What Should I Expect?
At Wilson Pediatric Therapy, you will receive an opening paperwork packet containing questions about your child's birth, development, and strengths. Please fill this out as soon as you are able, with as much information as possible. The more information provided prior to the evaluation, the more specific the evaluation itself can be.
What should I bring to the evaluation?
Please bring with you any paperwork related to specific medical diagnosis or specialist reports (post surgical or previous injury reports, etc). This can help therapists determine your child’s diagnosis and the extent of any physical concerns. If your child receives or has previously received outpatient therapy services or special education services, be familiar with your child's previous goals and any supports that they may receive at school. This can help your therapist determine goals and provides information on areas in which your child may benefit from continued support.
What happens during the evaluation?
At Wilson, your therapist will greet you and your child in the lobby before taking you both back to their independent therapy room. The therapist will review your opening paperwork with you and ask clarifying questions about your child’s development and current skills. They will ask additional questions relevant to their therapy discipline, such as how your child communicates, what happens when there is a communication breakdown, how they handle frustration, and their activities of daily living. Your therapist will then complete informal and formal testing measures which vary according to your child’s age and specific needs. These assessments could include observations of language and play, analysis of range of motion or hand writing, tests of articulation, or tests of visual perception. Each assessment will be tailored to your child and their strengths and weaknesses.
What's next?
At the end of the evaluation, your therapist will discuss the results and their clinical recommendations for treatment if appropriate. This is also a great time to ask any questions you may have. The therapist will then walk you to the front desk and get you scheduled for ongoing sessions as needed. Additional information, resources, and referrals may be provided at this time.
