When Mia’s teacher mentioned that she often preferred playing alone and became upset when routines changed, her parents weren’t sure what to think. They noticed similar behaviors at home, like repeating certain phrases and having trouble with transitions. Mia’s parents also noticed other signs, such as that her speech seemed delayed compared to her cousins, and she didn’t seem to look at people. Sometimes it was hard to leave the house because Mia would get upset or cry so parents found themselves opting to stay at home more than they would have liked. Situations like this can leave families feeling uncertain and searching for answers about their child’s development. Mia’s parents and friends, and family started to wonder if she was showing signs of something like Autism.
For families seeking answers, one of the best ways to gain clarity about whether their child may be displaying signs of Autism is through a formal autism assessment. This type of evaluation helps families to better understand their child and answer the question of whether the child meets meet criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder. No matter the outcome of the assessment, parents will come away better understanding their child, their child’s strengths and needs, and the next steps to help their child. In this blog, we’ll walk through what to expect from the assessment process and how to prepare, so you feel informed and ready for the journey ahead.
Understanding Autism Assessments
An autism assessment is about more than checking boxes on a form. It’s a step-by-step process that gives families and professionals a clear picture of how a child is developing, communicating, and connecting with others. In Calgary, parents usually start looking into an assessment when everyday challenges begin to feel overwhelming — at home, in school, out in the community, or all of these.
Maybe a teacher points out that a student struggles with group work or becomes upset when routines change. At home, parents might notice behaviors like repeating certain phrases, avoiding eye contact, or needing things done in a very specific way. None of these signs automatically means a child has Autism, but when they start showing up together and affecting daily life, it’s worth having a closer look.
With an autism assessment, a specialist gathers information from many different sources — parents, teachers, formal testing with the child, interviews, and direct observations. The goal isn’t just to identify challenges but to see the child for who they are, highlight strengths, and create a plan that helps the child thrive.
Signs Your Child May Need an Autism Assessment
Every child develops in their own way, and what’s typical for one child may not be for another. That said, there are certain behaviors that, when they appear together or become more noticeable over time, may suggest the need for a closer look.
Some families first notice that their child avoids making eye contact or doesn’t seem interested in playing with other kids. Others become concerned when speech and language milestones are delayed, or when their child struggles to explain what they need. In school settings, teachers might point out difficulties with group activities, following routines, or managing transitions between tasks.
Another common sign is repetitive behavior — things like repeating phrases, lining up toys in a very specific way, or focusing intensely on one particular topic. Changes in routine can also be especially tough, sometimes leading to meltdowns or overwhelming frustration.
Seeing one of these behaviors on its own doesn’t necessarily mean a child is on the autism spectrum. However, when several of these patterns start affecting daily life, it may be time to consider speaking with a professional. An early autism assessment can bring clarity and help families access support before challenges grow more difficult to manage.
Key Tools Used in Autism Assessments
Assessments for autism are grounded in something greater than observation alone. RMPS clinicians make use of different tools to obtain an understanding of the child’s communication, behaviors, and developmental history. Two of the more popular ones include the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-Second Edition (ADOS-2) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). These tools complement one another and are used in addition to other information gathered to provide an in-depth evaluation for Autism.
The ADOS-2 is also commonly referred to as structured play. At this stage, the clinician works one-on-one with the child, using games, toys, and simple activities to observe how the child interacts and responds. What might appear to parents as casual play is, in fact, carefully designed to highlight patterns in communication, social interaction, and flexibility. For many families, this stage does not feel intimidating, as children are usually more at ease when the activities seem familiar and enjoyable.
The ADI-R is caregiver- or parent-oriented. In this thorough interview, families talk about the history of the child’s development, early accomplishments, regular routines, challenges, and successes. This is valuable background information that can’t be gleaned every time the child visits the clinic for assessment. It gives parents the opportunity to also voice their concerns and take a long-term perspective on the child’s development.
Both tools, in addition to other information gathered in the assessment, offer clinicians a holistic picture of the child. The here-and-now is given by the ADOS, and the history that guides those behaviors is completed by the ADI-R. With an in-depth picture of what is going on for the child, the clinician will determine how best to understand what is happening for the child, if they meet criteria for a diagnosis, and what supports, programs, and next steps might help.
What to Expect in an Autism Assessment
An autism assessment typically follows a structured process designed to give families clear answers and guidance. It usually begins with an initial interview with parents or caregivers, where the clinician gathers information about the child’s developmental, medical, family, and educational history. From there, a personalized assessment plan is created.
The process often includes 3–6 sessions, some directly with the child (such as cognitive testing, or completing the ADOS-2) and others as caregiver interviews (like the ADI-R). Completion of standardized questionnaires may also be requested with input from parents, teachers, or other key people in the child’s life to provide additional perspectives. These tools help capture a holistic picture of how the child presents in different environments.
After all information is collected, the clinician reviews the results and prepares a detailed report. Families are invited to a feedback meeting where the findings are explained, and any questions can be addressed. The written report is usually finalized and shared after this meeting, so that any new insights or questions raised during the discussion can be included. Importantly, support doesn’t end there — a follow-up meeting about six weeks later ensures families have the chance to revisit concerns, ask new questions, and begin developing a treatment plan tailored to their child’s unique needs. This plan takes a bio-psycho-social approach, considering biological, psychological, and social/environmental factors so that the treatment plan is multifaceted. A comprehensive treatment plan that includes the bio-psycho-social aspects and also integrates the different people in a child’s life (parents, teachers, physicians, specialists, etc), has the highest likelihood of success.
How to Prepare for an Autism Assessment
Preparing for an autism assessment may feel overwhelming at first, but a few simple steps can help the process feel more manageable. Families who take a little time beforehand often find that the day itself runs more smoothly and that the information shared with the clinician is richer and more useful.
Collect important records
Bring any documents that give a sense of your child’s development and daily life. Medical records, teacher comments, report cards, or previous evaluations all provide valuable background that supports the assessment.
Keep short notes about daily life
Parents often notice patterns that may not appear in a clinic setting. Writing down how your child handles routines, how they respond to changes, or what situations bring out their strengths can give the clinician a clearer picture of everyday challenges and successes.
Help your child feel comfortable
Assessment settings can feel unfamiliar. Packing a favorite toy, book, or snack can give your child something familiar to hold onto. Talking about the visit ahead of time, in simple terms, and letting them know what to expect (the clinician can help you with that) can also help reduce anxiety.
Prepare your own questions
It is easy to forget details when the assessment is underway. Having a list of questions or concerns ready ensures that you leave the appointments with answers that matter most to you.
Taking these steps not only supports your child but also helps the assessment team create recommendations that reflect your child’s needs in real life.
Resources and Support across Alberta
Families in Calgary have access to a variety of services that support them at different stages. Some provide direct assessment, while others focus on therapy, education, or community connections.
Rocky Mountain Psychological Services (RMPS)
With over two decades of experience in child psychology, RMPS offers comprehensive autism assessments in-person in Calgary (and possibly across Alberta – talk to your clinician about whether this option is a fit for you), along with follow-up support for children, teens, and families. The clinic’s team of trained clinicians tailors assessment plans for the needs of the individual and follows up after the assessment to help bridge the gap between assessment and treatment.
Autism Calgary Association
This long-standing organization provides peer support, workshops, and information sessions. Many parents find the sense of community here as valuable as the resources themselves.
Alberta Health Services
Through specialized clinics, AHS provides assessments and connects families with therapies such as speech and occupational therapy. Access depends on age and need, but these services often play a key role in early intervention.
School-based and community programs
Calgary schools may offer learning support plans that address communication, behavior, and social interaction skills. Community programs, including recreational groups and skill-building workshops, give children opportunities to practice social skills in supportive settings.
Private and non-profit services
Some families turn to private clinics or non-profit organizations for tailored support. Options may include one-on-one therapy, parent coaching, or group programs that help children build independence and confidence.
Where to Go From Here
Starting the process of an autism assessment can feel heavy, but it is also an important step toward understanding your child better. Many parents describe a sense of relief once they have answers, even if the journey brings new challenges. An assessment doesn’t just highlight areas of concern; it also points out the strengths that make every child unique.
Families in Calgary have access to professionals, schools, and community groups ready to walk alongside them. Private psychology clinics like Rocky Mountain Psychological Services provide Autism assessment and treatment, and also support families with creating a treatment plan that includes other professionals or organizations that can help. Together, these resources give families the tools they need to move forward.
Most of all, it helps to remember that seeking an assessment is not about labels; it is about opening doors. With the right information and support, children can learn, grow, and feel understood, and families can move ahead with confidence.
