How Do I Get My Child Evaluated for Autism or ADHD?
If you’re asking this question, you’ve probably noticed something that doesn’t quite fit.
Maybe your child:
Struggles to focus or follow directions
Has intense meltdowns or emotional reactions
Avoids social interaction or seems socially overwhelmed
Is constantly moving and impulsive
Has strong sensory sensitivities (noise, clothing, food, transitions)
Is described as “bright but struggling”
Many parents find themselves Googling late at night:
“Does my child have autism?”
“How to get my child tested for ADHD”
“Autism evaluation near me”
“Signs of ADHD in kids”
If that’s you, here’s how the evaluation process typically works.
Step 1: Talk to Your Pediatrician
Your child’s pediatrician is often the best place to start.
You can say:
“I have concerns about my child’s development and attention. Can we do a screening or get a referral for an evaluation?”
Pediatricians can:
Conduct basic developmental screenings
Refer to specialists
Rule out medical causes
Guide you toward next steps
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it’s worth exploring.
Step 2: Consider Early Intervention (Birth–3)
If your child is under 3 years old, you can contact your state’s Early Intervention program directly. You do not need a doctor’s referral in most areas.
Early Intervention programs provide:
Developmental evaluations
Speech therapy
Occupational therapy
Behavioral supports
Early support can make a significant difference and services are often low-cost or free depending on your state.
Step 3: Request a School-Based Evaluation (Age 3+)
If your child is preschool-aged or older, you can request a formal evaluation through your local public school district.
Submit a written request stating:
“I am requesting a comprehensive evaluation to assess my child for autism and/or ADHD.”
Schools evaluate to determine educational eligibility, not medical diagnosis. This may lead to:
An IEP (Individualized Education Program)
A 504 Plan
Classroom accommodations
School-based services
Even if your child attends private school, your public district may still have evaluation responsibilities.
Step 4: Seek a Private Psychological Evaluation
Many families pursue a private evaluation with a:
Licensed psychologist
Neuropsychologist
Developmental pediatrician
A private evaluation typically:
Provides a formal medical diagnosis
Includes cognitive and executive functioning testing
Offers detailed recommendations
Can help with insurance and school planning
These evaluations can be expensive, but insurance may cover part of the cost.
What’s the Difference Between Autism and ADHD?
Parents often wonder whether behaviors point to autism, ADHD, or both.
Autism (ASD) often includes:
Social communication differences
Difficulty reading social cues
Sensory sensitivities
Repetitive behaviors or intense interests
ADHD often includes:
Difficulty sustaining attention
Impulsivity
Hyperactivity
Executive functioning challenges
It’s also common for children to meet criteria for both.
An evaluation helps clarify what’s going on and what support will help most.
When Should You Seek an Evaluation?
Consider pursuing evaluation if you notice:
Delayed speech or language
Ongoing behavioral challenges beyond what feels typical
Teacher concerns
Persistent social difficulties
Extreme distractibility
A strong gut feeling something isn’t clicking
You do not need to “wait and see” if concerns persist.
What Happens After a Diagnosis?
Many parents feel nervous about labels.
But diagnosis often brings:
✔ Clarity ✔ Access to services ✔ School accommodations ✔ Targeted support ✔ Relief from self-blame
A diagnosis doesn’t change your child. It helps you understand their brain and how to support it.
If You’re Feeling Overwhelmed
The evaluation process can feel:
Confusing
Emotional
Bureaucratic
Slow
You may question yourself. You may worry you’re overreacting.
But asking questions is not overreacting. It’s parenting.
If you’re wondering whether to get your child evaluated, that curiosity and care already says something important.