Reading Your Child’s Evaluation

For the past two months my children have had several evaluations. It just happens to be that time of year when we have our yearly testing. When you get an evaluation back, it can be very difficult and discouraging when you see words like “developmentally delayed”, “abnormal gait”, “expressive language disorder”, “feeding problems”, “developmental coordination disorder”, and “lack of normal physical development”. It can even be more difficult when you do not fully understand the terms. When reading your child’s evaluation, here is my advice:

1.     Ask questions: If you do not understand the terminology, ask the therapist. Have the therapist break it down for you and give you examples. Talk to the therapist about the plan and goals for the future.

 

2.     Educate yourself:  Research the terms or diagnosis on the internet. I have found great ideas of things I can do at home through a simple search.

 

3.     Notice the strengths and weaknesses: Congratulate your child on their strengths and use their strengths to help them overcome their weaknesses.

 

4.     Pay attention to the goals: The goals are your child’s plan. Meeting these goals will help your child succeed and make progress. Talk to your therapist about the goals often to make sure the right goals are set in place.

 

5.     Be Encouraged: Observe growth from your child’s last evaluation. Every bit of improvement is a step in the right direction.

 

Always remember that in the end, the evaluation and diagnosis is not a sign of failure but an opportunity for growth. Your child now has a plan to help their development, and help you point them in the right direction.

* If you are having trouble coping with your child’s evaluation and / or diagnosis, please seek professional help such as a counselor or join a parent support group.