As a parent, scheduling a speech evaluation is an important step toward understanding your child’s communication needs and supporting their speech and language development. We know that every child is unique, and our speech-language pathologists are here to help you better understand your child’s own specific needs. Our goal is to help your child feel comfortable and for you to feel empowered throughout this process. This guide will walk you through what to expect during a pediatric speech-language evaluation and how to prepare for the experience. 

What Is a Speech Evaluation?

A speech evaluation is a comprehensive assessment conducted by a licensed pediatric speech-language pathologist (SLP) to understand your child’s communication abilities. This process helps identify strengths, challenges, and whether your child may benefit from skilled speech therapy services. It’s not just about identifying difficulties—it’s about unlocking your child’s full potential. 

Before the Evaluation

Before the appointment, the SLP will ask you to fill out an intake form detailing your child’s medical history, developmental milestones, and any concerns you have about their speech or language skills. This information helps the therapist gain a better understanding of your child’s background and allows them to best prepare for the evaluation. Think of this as your opportunity to share your child’s story—every little detail helps us see the whole picture. 

What Happens During the Evaluation?

The evaluation is scheduled for 60 minutes and is designed to be a relaxed, play-based experience. We know how important it is for your child to feel at ease, so we make the session as fun and interactive as possible. Here’s what the process may include: 

1. Parent Interview: The SLP will begin by talking with you about your child—what makes them special, what challenges they face, and what goals you have for their communication.
2. Observation: The therapist will observe your child playing, interacting, and communicating in a natural environment. We want to see how your child expresses themselves and how they understand the world around them.
3. Standardized Testing: Depending on your child’s age and needs, the SLP may administer formal tests to assess areas like:
   1. 1. 1. Expressive language (what your child says)
         2. Receptive language (what your child understands)
         3. Articulation (speech sounds)
         4. Fluency (stuttering)
         5. Voice quality
         6. Social communication skills Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) use 
4. Informal Assessment: The therapist may also use toys, pictures, and conversation to assess how your child communicates in a less structured scenario. These moments often give us the clearest glimpse into your child’s personality and communication style.
5. Feeding/lactation evaluation: If your child is receiving a feeding evaluation, you will be instructed to fill out intake paperwork containing questions regarding where your child is at in their feeding journey, and where you may need support.
   1. 1. 1. Within this evaluation, your feeding therapist (SLP) will also conduct a parent interview and will likely observe a mealtime within that same session. 

After the Evaluation

Following the assessment, the SLP will sit down with you to discuss initial observations and next steps. You will receive a detailed report outlining the results, including: 

• Areas of strength 

• Areas where support is needed 

• Recommendations for therapy (if applicable) 

• Home strategies to support your child’s development 

We understand that this can feel like a lot of information, but we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Your questions and input are always welcome—this is a partnership. 

How to Prepare Your Child

To help your child feel comfortable: 

• Explain that they’ll be playing and talking with someone who wants to learn about how they talk and listen. 

• You can find a personalized video by the therapist you have been assigned to within your initial evaluation email from our scheduling team.  

• Bring any comfort items like a favorite toy or snack. 

• Encourage them to be themselves and have fun! Let them know there’s no right or wrong—just a chance to show who they are. 

Moving Forward

If therapy is recommended, the SLP will provide the recommended frequency and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs. Early intervention can make a significant difference, and with the right support, your child can thrive. 

You are not alone on this journey. If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s speech, language, or feeding development, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to guide and support your family every step of the way. Please give us a call at 773-780-3003. We can’t wait to speak with you!