About Child Assessments
Child Assessments is on a mission to destigmatize child and teen mental health, behavioral health, and developmental challenges. In support of that mission we've created a comprehensive set of online assessments.
Designed to be completed by a parent or caregiver, our tests cover the following areas:
- Anxiety, Depression, or Trauma: Children and teens may experience anxiety, depression, or trauma, which can significantly affect their mental health and overall wellbeing.
- Behavioral Issues: Behavioral issues in children and teens manifest as disruptive or challenging behaviors, often linked to underlying emotional or psychological problems.
- Brain Development and Learning Difficulties: During childhood and adolescence, learning difficulties can arise from various brain development issues, impacting academic and life skills.
- Eating Habits: Eating habits in young people are crucial for physical health, with issues ranging from poor nutrition to eating disorders.
- Self-Image & Identity Issues: Children and teens often struggle with self-image and identity, affecting their confidence and social interactions.
- Language & Communication Issues: Language and communication issues in young people can hinder their ability to express themselves and interact effectively with others.
- Physical Development: Physical development in children and teens involves changes in body size, strength, and motor skills, crucial for overall health.
- Social and Emotional Development: This aspect covers the evolving ability of young people to form relationships, manage emotions, and navigate social contexts.
- Developmental Milestones: Developmental milestones are specific skills or behaviors that children and teens typically exhibit at various stages, indicating normal development.
The tests are quick, free, and you'll get your confidential results instantly.
When to seek help
As a parent, you want the best for your child, including their mental and physical health. However, it's not always easy to determine when a child's behavior is just a phase or a sign of a deeper issue that needs professional attention. Here's some guidance on when to consider seeking professional help:
Anxiety, Depression, or Trauma: Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or trauma can manifest in various ways, including persistent sadness, extreme fears, or changes in behavior. If these symptoms are intense, last more than a few weeks, or interfere with school or social activities, professional assistance can be vital.
Behavioral Issues: Behavioral issues that persist, such as aggression, defiance, or hyperactivity, especially if they impact schooling or social relationships, may require the insights of a child psychologist or psychiatrist.
Brain Development and Learning Difficulties: If a child struggles significantly with learning, despite support from parents and teachers, or shows signs of developmental disorders such as ADHD or dyslexia, a professional evaluation can help identify the problem and suggest appropriate interventions.
Eating Habits: Eating disorders or significant issues with food and nutrition can have serious health consequences. If a child demonstrates extreme pickiness, weight loss, or an unhealthy preoccupation with body image and food, seeking help from a dietitian or therapist is recommended.
Self-Image & Identity Issues: Struggles with self-esteem, body image, or identity can deeply affect a child's mental health. If these issues lead to social withdrawal, depression, or risky behaviors, professional counseling can provide necessary support.
Language & Communication Issues: Difficulties in speech or communication that persist beyond the expected age for developmental milestones can be signs of a language disorder. Early intervention from a speech-language therapist can be crucial.
Physical Development: If a child shows signs of delayed physical development, such as not meeting physical milestones like walking or fine motor skills, a consultation with a pediatrician or a physical therapist can be beneficial.
Social and Emotional Development: Challenges in forming relationships, understanding social cues, or managing emotions are significant. Professional help is crucial if these issues hinder a child’s ability to function effectively in social settings.
Developmental Milestones: Missing multiple developmental milestones or significantly lagging behind peers in skills like speech, motor abilities, or cognitive skills warrants a discussion with a healthcare professional.
It's essential to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Early intervention can make a significant difference in a child's life. Trust your instincts as a parent; if something feels off, it's always better to consult a professional. Remember, each child is unique, and what might be a normal phase for one child could be a red flag for another. Your proactive approach can pave the way for your child’s healthy development and well-being.
Where to get support
Parenting a child with developmental, behavioral, social, or emotional issues can be challenging. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to provide support, guidance, and assistance. Here's a list of valuable resources:
Parent Training Programs:
- Incredible Years: Offers evidence-based training for parents of children with emotional and behavioral difficulties.
- Triple P – Positive Parenting Program: Provides strategies for managing a variety of behavioral problems and developmental issues.
Educational and Developmental Resources:
- Understood.org: Offers resources and support for parents of children with learning and attention issues.
- Wrightslaw: Provides information about special education law and advocacy for children with disabilities.
Online Forums and Support Groups:
- MyAutismTeam: A social network for parents of children with autism.
Mental Health Organizations:
- Child Mind Institute: Offers resources on various mental health disorders in children and adolescents.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Provides information and advocacy for families dealing with mental illness.
Governmental and Educational Assistance Programs:
- Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA): Ensures services to children with disabilities throughout the nation.
- Early Intervention Programs: State programs for infants and toddlers with disabilities or delays.
Therapeutic and Counseling Services:
- Mind Diagnostics Therapist Finder: A tool to find local therapists with various specialties.
- American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy: Provides a directory of therapists specializing in family therapy.
- Association for Behavior Analysis International: Directory of certified behavior analysts who can help manage behavioral issues.
Speech and Language Support:
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA): Offers a directory of certified speech-language pathologists.
- Speech Buddy: Tools and resources for children with speech and language difficulties.
Occupational and Physical Therapy Resources:
- American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA): Find occupational therapists for developmental and learning challenges.
- Physical Therapy Providers: Listings by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) for physical development issues.
Nutritional and Dietary Guidance:
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Resources for finding dietitians, particularly for children with specific dietary needs.
- Feeding Matters: Support for families of children with feeding difficulties.
Navigating the complexities of raising a child with developmental, behavioral, social, or emotional challenges is no small feat. The resources listed above provide a starting point for finding the necessary support, advice, and professional assistance. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength and commitment to your child’s well-being.