Nutrimind

Child Care

Child Care Screening for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Service in Kochi

Quick answer: An autism (ASD) assessment checks a child’s communication, social interaction, play and behaviour using standardised tools to find out whether they are on the autism spectrum. At Nutrimind, Tripunithura, it is led by a clinical psychologist and followed by a feedback session and therapy plan. Earlier assessment means earlier support. Call or WhatsApp 9745005400 to book.

Early Detection for a Better Tomorrow

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder seen in children that impacts their social, communication, and behavioural development. Screening a child for signs of ASD at a young age is extremely important for prompt identification, and the ultimate goal of intervention is to foster both skill development and independence. Nutrimind Care provides comprehensive ASD screening to determine the development of young children. It provides support for children who are at risk of delays. If you have noticed your child’s social interaction, communication, or behaviour with any level of concern, our expert process of screening children for ASD will help identify challenges early so your child can be supported in accessing necessary supports and therapies designed to assist in their development.

Why is early ASD screening important ?

Early screening for ASD matters because:

✔   Early diagnosis yields better outcomes – Early intervention will help improve communication, learning and social skills.

✔   Individualised support plans for each child – Early identification will guide tailored plans for education and expressive therapy.

✔   Encounter fewer obstacles in adulthood – Screened early, addressing development delays will lessen the obstacles one must face as an adult and impairment/confident social engagement.

✔   Parents will better understand and learn about children’s needs and support – Parents will have more insight into their child’s unique needs and strategies to support them.

If your child has speech delays, limited eye contact, unique interests, repetitive behaviours, and/or withdrawal socially, screening for ASD will clarify and support their developmental journey.

Comprehensive Screening Services for Autism Spectrum Disorder

(ASD) Our screening process for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an evidence-based, multistep process, which includes the following assessment methods:

✅  Developmental History Assessment

  • Parents/caregivers will participate in detailed discussions concerning the child’s behavioural patterns, social interactions, and achievements of developmental milestones.
  • Medical history and family history are reviewed to identify the existence of genetic and environmental factors taken into consideration.
     

✅  Behavioural Observations

  • The child’s social skills, communication skills, play behaviour and emotional responses will be observed by a trained specialist.
  • It will identify repetitive behaviours, sensory sensitivities, and challenges in engaging socially.
     

✅  Standardised Autism Screening Tools – We use standardised screening tools that are widely used across the world, which include:

  • M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers): A brief screener designed to detect ASD at an early age effectively.
  • ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule): A structured assessment observing the child’s play behaviour, evaluating the communication and social interactions and their imagination.
  • CARS (Childhood Autism Rating Scale): A standardised tool which assesses autism-related behaviours to the extent of severity.
     

✅   Speech and Language Evaluation

  • Identify speech and language delays or problems expressing verbally or using non-verbal cues.
  • Evaluate to what extent the child can process language and understand language.
     

✅  Sensory and Fine Motor Skills

  • These assessments include how the child responds to different sounds, textures, and movements.
  • The assessment also included the child’s coordination and fine motor skills.
     

✅  Parent and Teacher Questionnaires

  • A collection of data from parents and teachers about the child’s behaviour across a variety of settings. It provides insight into children’s social and learning adjustment.
     

✅  Diagnosis and Recommendations

  • Following the screening, you will receive a full report outlining your child’s strengths, challenges, and recommendations for the next steps.
  • We will make recommendations regarding therapy, special education, and parent support resources.

Step-by-Step Autism Screening Process

Step 1: Consultation

Please meet with our specialists to discuss your concerns, medical history, and developmental history.

Step 2: Screening and Observations

Our trained experts will conduct assessments of the child’s behaviour, communications, and sensory processing.

Step 3: Parents and Teachers Perspectives

Gather insights from parents and teachers to offer valuable information regarding the child’s daily interactions.

Step 4: Full evaluation

Using standardised screening measures in conjunction with expert insights, we will test the likelihood of an autism diagnosis.

Step 5: Recommendations for Your Child

We will provide a detailed report outlining the impressions of therapy, strategies for learning, and supports and services.

Step 6: Recommendations for parents and next steps

If applicable, we will assist parents with referrals for specialised therapy, as well as for violence, speech, and occupational therapy.

Reasons to consider Nutrimind care for ASD screening

✅Experienced Child Development Specialists: Our team of psychologists, occupational therapists, and paediatricians specialise in screening for ASD and supporting early intervention.

✅Evidence-based Screening Measures: We utilise internationally developed screening measures that have been studied for obvious reasons and use reliable screening measures.

✅Comprehensive and Compassionate Approach: We consider the child’s social-emotional, behavioural, and developmental needs rather than the child in isolation or the environment.

✅ Parent Consultation and Support: We teach families how we can support the child to succeed.

✅ Early Intervention Pathways: If your screening identifies that your child is at risk for ASD, we provide you with the next steps for therapy, learning plans and lifestyle changes.

✅ Child-Friendly Experience: Our screening will take place in a safe, engaging and nurturing setting for your child.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If there is a noticeable developmental delay, ASD screening is encouraged as young as 18 months; however, screening can occur at any age if there are concerns.

Symptoms of autism may include lack of speech or interest in communication, lack of eye contact or response to others, fluctuating to no social interaction with people, repetitive movements, sensorial sensitivities or agitation and difficulty with routine changes.

A screening indicates whether your child is at risk for ASD. A full diagnostic evaluation is required for a confirmed diagnosis.

While autism spectrum disorder is a lifelong condition, early intervention has been associated with substantial gains in areas such as communication, social engagement and independence.

If your child receives a diagnosis, we will work with you on options for therapy, educational support, and parental strategies for success in an outpatient setting.

Insurance coverage varies, and the best course of action is to contact your insurance provider regarding insurance coverage for ASD screening and therapy services.

Take the First Step Towards Your Child’s Future

Early screening can result in life-changing benefits in terms of your child’s development. If you think that your child may be exhibiting signs of ASD, do not hesitate to schedule an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) screening now.

Get your child what they need to have a bright and promising future! 💙✨

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