7 Crucial Things to Do After Your Child’s Disorder Assessment

1. Understanding the Assessment Results

First, you need to ensure you fully understand the assessment results. These reports can be packed with medical jargon and unfamiliar terms, which makes them intimidating and difficult to decipher. 

Take time to read and interpret the assessment report. If you're unsure about any terms or what the diagnosis means for your child, ask a healthcare provider. They can clarify and explain the significance of their findings, helping you understand your child's disorder and the recommended next steps.

2. Seek a Second Opinion if Necessary

If you feel confused or uncertain about your child’s diagnosis, it may be worth seeking a second opinion for confirmation or a different perspective.

Many mental and behavioral disorders can be misdiagnosed if improperly evaluated. These are complex conditions, and there’s not always a clear way to obtain a diagnosis - especially in young children and toddlers.

For example, a 2019 study looked at 4,498 children and found that 1,135 (25%) had symptoms of autism but didn’t receive an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis. That’s not to say your child’s disorder diagnosis is wrong, but there’s certainly no harm in repeating diagnostic evaluations with a different provider to explore all your options.

To find a specialist or another qualified healthcare provider for a second opinion, ask for recommendations from your current healthcare provider or seek referrals from trusted sources such as other parents or online support groups.

3. Develop a Comprehensive Care Plan

Once you have a clear understanding of your child's diagnosis, it’s time to develop a comprehensive care plan. This agenda should be tailored to your child's unique needs and will involve collaborating with healthcare providers, therapists, and educators.

This is the step in which you consider strategies such as…

• Therapy goals
• Medication management
• Educational accommodations
• Lifestyle/routine changes

Working closely with qualified therapists and other healthcare professionals will help your child access the support they need to thrive—emotionally, socially, and academically.

4. Explore Treatment Options

Many treatment options may be available for your child’s specific disorder, ranging from behavioral therapy to speech therapy, occupational therapy, and even medication.

However, what works for one may not work for another, so treatments should be carefully tailored to each patient.

A personalized treatment plan will account for your child's strengths and challenges to offer the best chances of success. Make sure to research and understand the various treatments available, discuss them with your healthcare provider, and determine how insurance coverage will affect your options.

5. Communicate with Your Child’s School

School plays a significant role in child development, so you’ll need to communicate effectively with teachers and administrators about your child’s requirements.

Start by sharing the diagnosis and any recommendations from healthcare professionals. This information can help the school provide the necessary support and make any helpful alterations to your child’s classroom routines.

For example, if your child has been diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the school may find it best to increase your child’s physical activity classes or implement virtual learning opportunities to suit their learning style.

You may also need to set up an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or a 504 Plan to ensure your child receives the accommodations they need to succeed. Remember, you are your child’s best advocate—don’t hesitate to speak up for what they need.

6. Build a Support Network

It takes a village to raise a child, especially if they have mental, emotional, or behavioral challenges.

In the coming months and years, you’ll need a strong support network in your corner. Now is a good time to connect with other families facing similar challenges. These parents can likely provide much-needed emotional support, practical advice, and an invaluable sense of community.

Look for local or online support groups, and consider involving extended family, friends, and community resources in your child’s care and development.

7. Educate Yourself and Your Family

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to understanding your child’s diagnosis. Educate yourself about the condition however you can. Read books, explore reputable websites, and connect with organizations specializing in your child’s disorder.

We also recommend educating other family members about your child’s condition and how they can best provide support. The more informed everyone is, the better equipped your family will be to support your child.

8. Monitor and Adjust the Care Plan Regularly

Lastly, we want to remind you that your child’s needs may change over time. You’ll have to monitor their progress and adjust the care plan as needed, likely with the help of your healthcare provider, therapists, and/or specialists.

Be on the lookout for signs that adjustments might be necessary. These signs could include changes in behavior, new emotional challenges, or a lack of progress in school or at home. Take note of these and discuss them with your child’s support team.

In Summary

The journey after your child’s disorder assessment may feel overwhelming, but there are many community resources out there to help you take the next steps. You’re not alone, and teams like ours at Family Medical Center are here to help you through it all.

Need a Second Opinion? Looking for More Guidance? 

If you live in the Lake Odessa area, schedule an appointment with our disorder assessment staff. We’ll help you pursue early disorder detection and explore your treatment options going forward.

Whether your child has a learning disability, autism, or generalized chronic anxiety, we’re confident we can refer you to an appropriate Michigan specialist.