When you’re concerned about your child’s communication, social interaction, or possible signs of autism, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. A speech and language assessment is often one of the most helpful early steps. It gives you a clearer understanding of how your child communicates, what their unique strengths are, and where they may benefit from extra support. For many families, it provides invaluable insight, whether they are exploring an autism assessment or seeking answers about other developmental concerns. This blog walks you through what actually happens during a speech and language assessment, so you know exactly what to expect and how it can support your child’s next steps
What actually happens in a Speech and Language Assessment?
A speech and language assessment consists of two stages:
- Initial information gathering
- An in-person, clinic-based speech and language assessment
The process gives the Speech and Language Therapist [SLT] the information they need to write a detailed report on your child’s communication strengths and areas where support would be beneficial.
Initial Information Gathering
The process starts by gathering a case history for your child. You may already have completed this as part of the initial information gathering for your child’s autism assessment. Sometimes, further detail and clarification is needed. Our experienced clinical team will work with you to collect this information. This part of the process involves the parent/caregiver and an experienced CORU registered Speech & Language Therapist, and takes place online.
An In-Person Speech and Language Assessment
A speech and language assessment typically involves a mixture of unstructured and structured activities with an SLT. Every diagnostic tool we use follows best practice NICE guidelines. At Constellation Healthcare, this part of the process is in person and takes place in one of our clinics.
For younger children, the assessment is likely to include informal play-based activities and observation, as well as a conversation with you. For older children, the assessment will include more formal, structured activities where possible. There will be time for you to ask questions and discuss specific concerns you may have.
At some points, the SLT will need to work one-on-one with your child without your input. This is so they can get a clear picture of your child’s strengths and needs. The SLT will let you know when they need to work one-on-one so you always know what is happening and why.
If you have further questions after the assessment, or there are issues you would rather discuss without your child present, we can accommodate this. The assessment will last up to 1.5 hours, often less for younger children.
Throughout, the process will always be tailored to your child and their regulation on the day. The aim is always to get the fullest possible picture of them, which means making them feel as safe and comfortable as possible.
How to prepare for a Speech and Language Assessment
What Information should I prepare for my Child’s Speech and Language Assessment?
A speech and language assessment involves gathering information and asking questions about your child’s communication history.
Before the initial information gathering session, these are some things to think about:
- How your child communicated and interacted when they were younger – and any differences you noticed
- How they communicate and interact now – and any differences you see
You may find it helps to make notes to bring to the appointment.
It is also helpful to have:
- Copies of school reports
- Copies of medical notes or other clinical reports
Videos of your child in everyday situations can be useful so the SLT can see how your child communicates in familiar settings.
You are likely to have many questions. Again, you may find it helpful to write these down in advance.
How should I prepare my Child for a Speech and Language Assessment?
If your child uses augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, bring these to the appointment with you. If your child has a favourite toy, it is a good idea to bring it with you. If they have a particular interest, their favourite books or information sources on the subject are also useful. They will all help the SLT to engage with your child. Your aim should be to help your child feel like they can relax and be themselves as much as possible during the appointment. You will know the best way to do this for your child, but the following tips may help
Tips for preparing younger children for a Speech and Language Assessment
It can help to tell younger children they are going to meet someone new who will carry out some activities and play some games with them.
Tips for preparing older children for a Speech and Language Assessment
A speech and language assessment isn’t a test your child can pass or fail. It is an opportunity to get to know your child and get a snapshot of their communication at that moment in time.
The advice is always to trust your instincts and prepare your child in the way you think will work best for them.
About Constellation Healthcare and our approach to Speech & Language Assessments
Constellation Healthcare is a leading provider of neurodevelopmental assessments and supports, including autism assessments, in Ireland. Our assessments are carried out by expert Clinical, Educational and Counselling Psychologists, along with CORU-registered Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists – using best practice, evidence-based tools.
At the heart of our services is a deep commitment to personalised, child- and family-centred care. We recognise every child is unique, and we value their individual strengths while supporting them to reach their full potential. We tailor our support, and work with warmth, empathy and respect. From the first phone call to post-diagnosis supports, our multidisciplinary team works closely with families to provide clear guidance, clinical expertise and assurance at every step. We believe that accessing support for neurodivergent children should be simple, straightforward and timely.
Contributors
- Joanne Fine, Clinical Lead, Speech & Language Therapy, Constellation Healthcare
- Jordan O’Connor, Speech and Language Therapist, Constellation Healthcare
- Kate O’Sullivan, Speech and Language Therapist, Constellation Healthcare