The Atlas Clinic
Cognitive & Developmental Assessment
Evaluation to understand a child’s intellectual abilities
About This Assessment
What is a Cognitive & Developmental Assessment?
This type of assessment may be considered when there are concerns that a child may not be developing in line with their same-aged peers, or there is a suspected general learning difficulty (i.e., intellectual disability). Intellectual disability is characterised by limitations in a person’s intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour (i.e., learned social and practical skills).
This assessment examines a child’s cognitive functioning in areas such as memory, attention, problem-solving, and language skills. Additionally, it assesses broader developmental and adaptive domains, including physical, social and emotional, as well as communication skills. Through a combination of standardised tests, observations, and parent/caregiver collateral, this assessment offers a comprehensive picture of a child’s overall strengths, challenges, and achievement of developmental milestones.
What’s Involved in the Cognitive & Developmental Assessment Process?
Diagnosing intellectual disability involves a comprehensive assessment that goes beyond the use of any single test. The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) outlines the criteria for diagnosis, considering both intellectual and adaptive functioning.
At The Atlas Clinic, our clinical psychologists use a range of gold standard tools to assess cognitive ability, along with well-validated measures of adaptive functioning.
The process typically includes:
01. Friendly Introduction
It begins with a friendly chat. We sit down with parents or caregivers and the child to understand their likes, dislikes, and what they enjoy doing.
We may also speak with teachers or medical professionals to better understand the child’s developmental history and current level of functioning.
02. Observing and Watching
We pay attention to how your child solves problems and what they enjoy doing. This helps us understand their unique way of thinking.
03. IQ Testing
Using gold standard tests, we examine cognitive abilities such as intelligence, memory, and processing speed to identify strengths and areas of difficulty.
04. Evaluating Everyday Functioning – Adaptive Functioning Assessment
We assess how well a child manages daily activities independently, from communication to self-care. This helps us understand their practical skills in real-life situations.
05. Confirming Timelines – Considering Onset
We review when certain challenges first became noticeable, ensuring they align with the developmental period before age 18.
06. Compiling the Assessment Report
After gathering all the information, we create a comprehensive report detailing the findings.
A diagnosis is made when there are significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour. The report will include:
- Suspected Diagnosis: Consideration of challenges in both intellectual functioning and everyday practical skills.
- Severity Level: An outline of the level of support required, from mild to more significant needs.
- Recommendations: Practical strategies and supports tailored to the individual’s needs.
07. Feedback
A feedback meeting is arranged (3–4 weeks following assessment), where parents or caregivers meet to go through the report in detail, discuss any diagnoses, and explore recommendations.
Benefits of a Cognitive & Developmental Assessment?
This assessment provides a range of benefits for children and families by offering valuable insights into a person’s intellectual and overall developmental functioning.
Key advantages include:
- Early identification of developmental delays
- Tailoring educational strategies
- Guidance for Individualised Education Plans (IEPs)
- Understanding cognitive strengths and weaknesses
- Identification of learning disabilities
- Facilitating communication and collaboration
- Empowering individuals