Autism Evaluation:
What, When, How?

At Lumino ABA our Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) evaluations are designed to be thorough, compassionate, and child centered. We understand that undergoing an evaluation can feel overwhelming for families, so we’ve created a supportive environment where children feel safe, seen, and understood.

A Comfortable and Supportive Setting

We do everything we can to make the environment feel welcoming and comfortable. We follow the child’s lead whenever possible and allow time for breaks or parent involvement if needed. Our goal is to get an authentic picture of your child, not just how they perform in a clinical setting, but how they naturally interact with the world around them.

A Play-Based, Child-Friendly Approach

Our evaluations are structured around play, engagement, and natural interactions. Whether your child is a toddler or a teen, we tailor the experience to their developmental level and comfort. Many children see the assessment as a chance to play, explore, and interact and beg for more!

During the evaluation, your child may:

  • Engage in play-based activities that assess communication, joint attention, social interaction, and imagination.

  • Participate in structured games, storytelling, or pretend play.

  • Interact with toys, puzzles, or sensory materials, depending on their age and interests.

These activities aren’t just fun, they provide our clinicians with valuable insights into how your child communicates, responds to others, problem solves, and navigates their environment.

What the Clinician Is Looking For

Throughout the session, our licensed evaluator will observe and assess key areas such as:

  • Social communication and interaction

  • Eye contact, join attention and nonverbal communication

  • Play skills and imagination

  • Behavioral patterns, including repetitive behaviors or sensory interests

  • Language use and understanding

  • Emotional responses and regulation

We utilize gold-standard tools, such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2), to ensure accuracy and adherence to best practices.

After the Evaluation

Once the evaluation is complete, our clinician will aggregate data into a comprehensive diagnostic report and schedule a feedback session with you. This includes a clear explanation of  results, answers to your questions, and individualized recommendations regardless of whether an Autism diagnosis is confirmed.

At Lumino ABA, we believe every child deserves quality support that facilitates their potential. Our ASD evaluations are not just about diagnosis; they are about opening the door to meaningful support and development.