The ADOS: ADOS stands for Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule. ADOS is a standardized diagnostic test for Autism, published by Western Psychological Services (WPS) in 2000. Since that time, it has become one of the standard diagnostic tools both in the NHS and independent clinicians use when screening and provides a systematic method for identifying children with Autism.

The developmental, dimensional and diagnostic interview (3di) Parent Interview: An automated procedure was devised for administration by trained interviewers that generates symptom and diagnostic profiles for both autism and non-autistic conditions. The interview is designed to be conducted with a parent of the individual being assessed, or with another informant who has known the individual well since childhood.

We book in each assessment for a maximum of two hours. If we feel we will need more time for the assessment, we will book in another appointment.

For Parents: We will be asking questions about your child’s developmental history therefore it may be helpful to look over videos and pictures of your child and think about their play, interactions with others, motor skills, and milestones. You are welcome to bring in your red book if it has certain milestone dates. Some examples of questions are: When did your child sit unaided? Did you child enjoy games that involve co-operation, such as Pass the Parcel?Please email us or bring on the day any relevant previous medical reports which you have not already sent to our administrator during the pre-assessment phase. Some parents find it helpful to write down the key points and bring them with you when you come to the assessment meeting.If there is anything that you wanted to say but forgot during the assessment, you can always email our clinician.

For Child: Your child can come to the assessment in comfortable clothing. Please ensure your child is wearing their glasses and have their hearing aids if required on the day of the assessment. Please bring a snack and water bottle for your child on the day. Your child will most likely be very tired following the assessment, and it is advised to do something relaxing or within their interests following the assessment. Encourage your child to be themselves – it is okay to stim (rocking, flapping, etc.).

It depends on your child’s age and their level of understanding. With older children that understand it is best to be honest and have their consent before the assessment and discuss with them how it can help find out more about their strengths and areas of support, but also about their identity. Be positive. Many parents have mentioned what works is to not overcomplicate it and keep the explanation simple.Also think about what might be helpful to plan the transition, showing your child the rooms or clinician pictures, letting them decide what nice activity they would like to do following the assessment.Mentioning to young people that it is not like exams or tests at school, but more a playbased tasks and a discussion about different aspects of daily-life.

If your child is anxious on the day we will take our time to make them feel comfortable before beginning. Please let us know if you feel we can provide any additional information or support before the assessment day to help with their anxiety. Furthermore, you are able to stay with them in the room until they feel comfortable to be on their own. We are able to send you images of our faces and the room so they can familiarise themselves with the people and environment, please let us know if this would be useful. We can also offer the ADOS assessment in your home if your child is extremely anxious.

Foundations has never experienced any difficulties of our diagnosis or report not being accepted. Very much the opposite in which the recommendations and care plan are greatly helpful for CAMHS, School and EHCP. We are fully compliant with the NICE Guidelines and use the gold standards which are the same used within CAMHS NHS assessments. Our reports are comprehensive and provide full details of the assessment and diagnosis. You may wish to discuss this with your local team beforehand and we are able to liaise with them beforehand if you require.