Does my child need an assessment, and how do I decide?

The short answer

Begin with the question you need answered, not a trait checklist or a hoped-for label. An assessment may help when a persistent pattern affects learning, relationships, health, independence or daily life, and understanding the pattern would guide support, treatment or future decisions. Record specific examples across time and settings, including strengths and easier situations. Ask what the proposed assessment covers, who can refer, what information is required, and what happens after each possible result. Screening questionnaires can organise information but do not diagnose. Support at home and school can start while you decide or wait. Seek health advice promptly for regression, seizures, significant physical symptoms, severe mental-health change or immediate risk rather than assuming these belong to ADHD or autism.

• Define the question an assessment might answer and the decision that answer would change.
• Describe patterns, impact, variation and development rather than collecting traits alone.
• Keep health, learning, communication and environmental explanations open.
• Check the local referral route, scope, team and post-assessment offer.
• Begin needs-led support without waiting for a diagnostic result.
• Use urgent health or safety routes for urgent concerns.