Speech and Language Assessment 

Figuring out the problem and creating a plan.

Each child is different and presents with their own, unique set of needs. This is why carrying out a detailed assessment is so important to identify a child's strengths, weaknesses and potential areas of improvement. 

​

At TalkStars, we offer a few options for assessments: a screening using a checklist, or a detailed assessment using a standardized test. 

​

A speech and language assessment consists of informal observations of the child in a comfortable, natural environment. The therapist observes how the child plays with toys and how the child interacts with others. This could include attempts to communicate, eye contact and joint attention. 

​

The therapist may also choose to carry out a standardized test to compare the child's performance to other children in the same age group. Examples are the Preschool Language Scales - 5th Edition, or the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals (CELF). More frequently, therapists employ checklists and rating scales to directly evaluate if the child is functioning at age-appropriate levels. 

​

Once the assessment is carried out, the therapist prepares a detailed report listing out their observations, providing a provisional diagnosis or referrals for further testing, as well as a treatment plan should therapy be required. 

​

An assessment can last anywhere from 1 hour, to multiple sessions across a few days depending on the child and complexity of the problem. However, it's important to understand that good quality assessments are crucial in order to plan individualized, client-centered therapy.